Four-time Masters champion Tiger Woods has announced that, for the second time in three years, he will not be in the field at Augusta National.
The long-time World No. 1, still on the recovery trail with an ailing back, delivered news that he will not take part in the 80th Masters through his personal website, writing:
I've been hitting balls and training daily, but I'm not physically ready. I've said all along that this time I need to be cautious and do what's best for my long-term health and career. Unfortunately, playing Augusta next week wouldn't be the right decision. I'm absolutely making progress, and I'm really happy with how far I've come, but I still have no timetable to return to competitive golf.
He will make the trip, however, announcing he will attend the Champions Dinner.
Tiger has three top-five finishes in his last five starts at Augusta National. He last captured the season's first major championship in 2005, following his titles in 1997, 2001, and 2002.