Tiger Woods has had to withdraw from this week's Northern Trust in New Jersey due to an oblique muscle issue.
The reigning Masters champion struggled in yesterday's first round, eventually carding a +4 round of 75.
Woods had complained of stiffness to his surgically-repaired back heading into this week's competition but claimed after his opening round that his 75 was purely down to poor play on his behalf, "It was just off. I was just trying to feel it, trying to find it, and then could never get it.
"Then I got on a bad run there, a couple of bogeys and a double. I had my opportunities to turn it around and I didn't do it.
"I just didn't play well. Just one of those things where I just didn't hit any good shots and didn't make any putts. Other than that, added up to a round that broke 80."
Woods has had a very light schedule in 2019, with The Northern Trust just his fifth tournament since his remarkable win at Augusta in April. He's made the cut just twice in that time.
Woods finished tied for 21st at the US Open at Pebble Beach. He also tied for 9th at The Memorial Tournament at Murifield Village.
The 43-year old officially withdrew from The Northern Trust this morning, complaining of a "mild oblique strain that led to pain and stiffness".
With crucial FedEx Cup points on offer at next week's BMW Championship at Medinah, Woods hopes he can return at close to full speed, "I went for treatment early Friday morning, but unfortunately I’m still unable to compete.
"I’d like to thank the New Jersey and New York fans for their support and remain hopeful I can compete next week at the BMW Championship."
Next week is the penultimate tournament on Woods' 2019 schedule, with October's Zozo Championship poised to be his final outing.
