Andy Lyons/Getty Images Tiger Woods is resting up after undergoing a successful surgery on his spine (a microdiscectomy, to be more accurate) yesterday in Utah to fix a pinched nerve that has been affecting his game for months.
Unfortunately for the sports star, his current condition has forced him to pull out of the upcoming Masters golf tournament.
"After attempting to get ready for the Masters, and failing to make the necessary progress, I decided, in consultation with my doctors, to have this procedure done," Woods said in a statement on his website.
"I'd like to express my disappointment to the Augusta National membership, staff, volunteers and patrons that I will not be at the Masters," the 38-year-old added. "It's a week that's very special to me. It also looks like I'll be forced to miss several upcoming tournaments to focus on my rehabilitation and getting healthy."
"I'd also like to thank the fans for their support and concern," Woods said. "It's very kind and greatly appreciated. This is frustrating, but it's something my doctors advised me to do for my immediate and long-term health."
According to his site, Woods will begin "intensive rehabilitation and soft-tissue treatment within a week" and should be able to start putting again in about three weeks. "There should be no long-lasting effects from the surgery, and it should not impact the longevity of his career," the statement said.
Woods added, "I'm absolutely optimistic about the future."