Tiger Woods has pulled out of this week’s Genesis Invitational, still grieving the recent loss of his mother Kultida.
“I’m just not ready,” Woods shared on social media. “I did my best to prepare, knowing it’s what my Mom would have wanted, but I’m still processing her loss.”
Kultida Woods passed away on February 4th, leaving behind a powerful legacy as Tiger’s biggest supporter and a beloved grandmother to his children Sam and Charlie.
“My Mom was a force of nature,” Tiger wrote in his tribute last week. “She was quick with the needle and a laugh. Without her, none of my personal achievements would have been possible.”
The golf world has been eagerly waiting to see the 15-time Major champion back in PGA Tour action. He hasn’t played a Tour event since his back surgery in September, though he did appear at the PNC Championship in December with his son Charlie.
The timing of his withdrawal is particularly noteworthy. Just yesterday, Woods reportedly played golf with President Donald Trump in Florida, amid growing speculation about a potential deal between the PGA Tour and LIV Golf’s Saudi backers. Woods serves as a player director on the Tour’s board.
For fans hoping to see Tiger back in competition, the next opportunity might be the Arnold Palmer Invitational starting March 6th. His last appearance there in 2018 resulted in an impressive top-5 finish.
“I hope to be at Torrey later in the week,” Woods added in his statement, suggesting he might still make an appearance at the event, even if he’s not competing.
The loss of Kultida Woods has clearly hit Tiger hard. She was more than just his mother – she was the foundation of his legendary career, the woman who helped shape one of golf’s greatest champions.
