The agent for Tiger Woods said in an email Monday that it's too early for doctors to decide whether the 14-time major champion can compete in the PGA Championship at Louisville's Valhalla Golf Club this week. Woods withdrew from the Bridgestone Invitational Sunday after jarring his surgically-repaired back while playing a shot on the par-5 second hole. The Bridgestone Invitational was only his third tournament since returning from a three-month absence following back surgery in March.
A press conference with Woods at Valhalla that was scheduled before his injury has been cancelled. Woods was reportedly still at his home in Florida Monday having the injury assessed. Woods' caddy, Joe LaCava, is at Valhalla, where he's been charting the course. He says he's "hoping" Woods will be able to play.
Meanwhile, U.S. Ryder Cup captain Tom Watson says Woods' latest back injury "doesn't bode well right now" for him playing in the Ryder Cup. Watson told SiriusXM PGA Tour Radio he was watching the final round of the Bridgestone Invitational when Woods withdrew after hitting his tee shot on the ninth hole.
Watson has said a healthy Woods would be a good addition to the team, and that he hopes the former World No. 1 can play in this week's PGA Championship.
Tiger Woods has won the PGA Championship four times, including the 2000 title at Valhalla.
