Golf: Back injury to keep Tiger Woods out of Masters

Tiger Woods tees off during the Dubai Desert Classic golf tournament. Photo/AP Photos

Embattled golf legend Tiger Woods has confirmed he won't tee off at next week's Masters at Augusta National.

Woods, once seemingly destined to become the world's greatest player, has seen his career cut down by injury in recent years and now seems unlikely to fulfill his potential, after 14 Major victories.

He won his first Major at the 1997 Masters and has added three more since, but this year won't be a part of that legacy.

"Unfortunately, I won't be competing in this year's Masters," he has announced on his website. "I did about everything I could to play, but my back rehabilitation didn't allow me the time to get tournament ready.

"I'm especially upset, because it's a special anniversary for me that's filled with a lot of great memories. I can't believe it's been 20 years since I won my first green jacket.

"I have no timetable for my return, but I will continue my diligent effort to recover and want to get back out there as soon as possible.

"I'd like to pass along my regrets to Billy Payne, the Augusta National membership, staff, volunteers and patrons, that I won't be there. I will be at the Champions Dinner and I look forward to seeing a lot of old friends.

"Augusta National has been a very important place to me and my family for over 20 years and while I'm disappointed, it will be good to be back there Tuesday."

The 41-year-old has not played competitively, since withdrawing from the Dubai Desert Classic at the start of February, due to back spasms.

Woods, who won the last of his Major titles in 2008, has missed the Masters twice in the last three years.