As the golfing community gears up for THE PLAYERS Championship, one of the PGA Tour’s most anticipated events, the absence of Tiger Woods is a stark reminder of the personal battles he is currently dealing with. The championship, which offers a whopping 750 FedExCup points to the victor, is one of the most sought-after titles on the golfing circuit. Scottie Scheffler, currently ranked world No.1, is setting his sights on an unprecedented third consecutive win – a feat only ever achieved by the legendary Jack Nicklaus.
However, the absence of two-time winner Woods is palpable. He hasn’t competed in the event since 2019 and his decision to sit this one out is not entirely unexpected. Woods is still grappling with the sudden demise of his mother, Kultida, on February 4th, and has been dedicating his time to grieving and fulfilling other commitments.
In his own words, Woods confessed, “This is the third time I’ve touched a club since my mom passed, so I haven’t really gotten into it.” He further expressed his current lack of motivation for practice, stating, “My heart is not into practicing right now. I have so many other things to do with the tour. Once I start probably feeling a little bit better and start getting into it, I’ll start looking at the schedule.”
The spotlight now turns to THE PLAYERS Championship, which is the first of five events this season that offer a generous 750 FedExCup points to the winner. If Scottie Scheffler triumphs, he would join Jack Nicklaus (1974, 1976, 1978) in the exclusive club of three-time winners of THE PLAYERS Championship, and would be the first to clinch it consecutively.
This news is still unfolding, and more updates are expected as the story develops.
In the wake of Tiger Woods’ absence, the stage is set for an interesting battle at THE PLAYERS Championship. While Woods takes time to heal from his personal loss, the golfing world holds its breath for what is shaping up to be a riveting contest.
