Augusta National chairman releases statement after it’s confirmed Tiger Woods will not play in The Masters

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Tiger Woods will not be playing at The Masters this year, as confirmed by Augusta National Golf Club chairman Fred Ridley.

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Woods was recently arrested on charges of driving under the influence, for which he has submitted a not guilty plea.

He had only just returned to the sport last week at TGL, with his appearance in the indoor tournament representing his first competitive golf for more than a year.

During that period of absence, Woods underwent Achilles and back surgeries, missing the entire 2025 PGA Tour season.

His recent return kept open the possibility of an appearance at The Masters, but his absence has now been announced.

Augusta National chairman confirms Tiger Woods won’t play in The Masters

Via The Masters on X, a statement from Augusta chairman Ridley wrote: “Augusta National Golf Club and The Masters Tournament fully support Tiger Woods as he focuses on his well-being.

“Although Tiger will not be joining us in person next week, his presence will be felt here in Augusta.”

It is, of course, a massive blow for Woods and the tournament itself, along with the fans at Augusta National.

They would have loved to have seen the five-time champion and 15-time major champion in action at the iconic course.

Photo by Andrew Redington/Getty Images

Tiger Woods confirms he is ‘stepping away’ from golf

Woods himself has also issued a statement following his latest controversy, confirming he’ll be out of action for the foreseeable future.

“I know and understand the seriousness of the situation I find myself in today,” he wrote on X.

“I am stepping away for a period of time to seek treatment and focus on my health.

“This is necessary in order for me to prioritize my well-being and work toward lasting recovery.

“I’m committed to taking the time needed to return in a healthier, stronger, and more focused place, both personally and professionally.

“I appreciate your understanding and support, and ask for privacy for my family, loved ones and myself at this time.”

His last competitive tournament was indeed a major championship, when Woods missed the cut at The Open Championship in 2024.

He made just one cut from his five PGA Tour tournaments that season, during which he finished 60th at The Masters.

Tiger Woods makes very wise move ahead of The Masters

It can’t have been an easy decision for Woods, who is clearly keen to get back out onto the course as soon as possible.

That has now been delayed after his latest issue, but he deserves credit for taking matters into his own hands and putting his health first.

It is a decision that has drawn praise from Paige Spiranac, who wrote on X: “I think we are all rooting for Tiger.

“Not as a golfer but more importantly as a person. None of us can fathom what he’s been through both emotionally and physically.

“Not excusing any behavior but I hope he’s able to get the help he needs in peace without the whole world dog piling on him in a very difficult situation.”

He definitely needs time and space to figure things out and improve his health, both physically and mentally.

But it is hopefully not the end for legendary figure Woods in golf, with nothing off the cards for the 50-year-old despite his age and his recent struggles.

He has already emphatically proven that he cannot be ruled out of success, even against all the odds, most notably when he won The Masters in 2019.

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