Tiger Woods Not in the Field for The Players Championship in Final Year of Exemption
A Surprise, But Not Unexpected
Tiger Woods has announced that he will not be participating in The Players Championship at the TPC Sawgrass, the final year of his exemption from winning the 2019 Masters. This decision comes as no surprise, given his recent statements about his lack of interest in golf since his mother, Kultida, passed away on February 4.
A Busy Schedule and Personal Commitments
Woods has only played golf three times since his mother’s passing, including a TGL Golf League match, a match with President Donald Trump, and a Pro-Am event. He has been focusing on his personal life, and it’s clear that his heart is not in golf at the moment.
A Five-Year Exemption
Woods earned a five-year exemption for The Players Championship after winning the 2019 Masters, which was extended to account for the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. The pandemic led to the cancellation of the 2020 Players Championship, which Woods did not participate in due to back stiffness.
No Special Exemptions Available
Woods will not be able to use special exemptions to participate in The Players Championship. His only options to return to the tournament would be through his performance this year or by playing on the PGA Tour Champions after turning 50 and winning the Kaulig Companies Championship at Firestone.
A Possible Return to the Masters
Woods is still eligible to play in the Masters, and the deadline to commit is not yet set. He has never missed the cut in the Masters as a professional, setting a record last year with his 24th cut made.
Conclusion
Tiger Woods’ absence from The Players Championship is not unexpected, given his current priorities and focus on his personal life. While it’s uncertain when he will return to competitive golf, his fans will be eagerly awaiting his next move.
FAQs
* What is the reason for Tiger Woods’ absence from The Players Championship?
+ His mother’s passing and his desire to focus on personal commitments.
* How did Tiger Woods earn his exemption for The Players Championship?
+ By winning the 2019 Masters, which was extended to account for the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020.
* Can Tiger Woods use special exemptions to participate in The Players Championship?
+ No, he will need to use his performance this year or play on the PGA Tour Champions after turning 50 to return to the tournament.
* Is Tiger Woods still eligible to play in the Masters?
+ Yes, and the deadline to commit is not yet set.
