Frustrated Woods to miss US Open

Woods has won the US Open three times

Tiger Woods has revealed he will miss this month’s US Open because of injury.

The former world number one suffered a sprain to his left knee and mild strain to his left Achilles tendon during the third round of the Masters in April.

“I am extremely disappointed I won’t be playing in the US Open [16-19 June],” Woods, 35, stated on his website.

“But it’s time for me to listen to my doctors and focus on the future. I was hopeful I could play, but if I did, I risk further damage to my left leg.”

The injuries occurred when hit his second shot from under the Eisenhower tree at hole 17 at Augusta.

He consequently missed the Wells Fargo Championship and withdrew after nine holes during the first round at The Players Championship after injuring his leg again on the opening tee shot.

Woods, who has been wearing a protective shoe in an attempt to aid his recovery, has been dogged by injuries for three years. The American added his 14th and last major to date when he beat Rocco Mediate in a play-off at the 2008 US Open.

Following the epic win, Woods revealed he had a double stress fracture in his left tibia and also revealed he had been playing for almost a year with a torn ligament in his left knee. Woods had surgery and missed the next eight months, including the Open and PGA Championship of 2008.

The Californian then had another lay-off after his serial infidelity became public knowledge in November 2009. The following year he came fourth in the Masters and US Open before repeating that feat back at Augusta in April.

“It’s been a frustrating and difficult year, but I’m committed to my long-term health,” Woods added. “I want to thank the fans for their encouragement and support. I am truly grateful and will be back playing when I can.”

Defending US Open champion Graeme McDowell said he was surprised by the news.

“To not have one of the greatest players that have ever lived [at the US Open] is massive,” the Northern Ireland golfer told Sky Sports News.

“Golf needs Tiger Woods. He’s been golf for the last 15 years. His mental health is one question, his physical health is another. We’ll hope he’ll be back, but no one knows.”

This week Woods also announced that he will be staying with his long-term agent Mark Steinberg, who announced his departure from sports agency IMG two weeks ago.