Tiger Woods won't play in Masters: 'I'm not physically ready to compete'

Tiger Woods has a lifetime invitation to play in the Masters.

He won’t, however, be making use of it this year.

The four-time winner of the Masters made it official Friday by announcing he would miss the 80th edition of the Masters, which starts April 7 at Augusta National Golf Club in Augusta, Ga. The 14-time major champion hasn’t competed since the second of two back surgeries in October. He last played in the Wyndham Championship in August, where he tied for 10th.

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“After assessing the present condition of my back, and consulting with my medical team, I've decided it's prudent to miss this year's Masters,” Woods said on his blog. “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.”

Woods, who won the green jacket in 1997, 2001, 2002 and 2005, also did not play in the 2014 Masters after having back surgery March 31 of that year.

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There is no timetable for his return.

“I'd like to express my disappointment to Billy Payne, the Augusta National membership, staff, volunteers and patrons that I won't be competing. It's a very important and special week to me, and it's upsetting to miss it.” Woods said. “I do plan to attend the Champions Dinner and see a lot of old friends. I'd like to thank the fans for their concern and support. The last few years have been difficult, but I have the best fans anywhere, and I want them to know that.”