Tiger Woods will not compete in the Masters this year, making it the first time in 20 years that Woods won’t be participating in the golf tournament.

Tiger Woods Out Of Masters

Woods underwent a microdiscectomy earlier this week for a pinched nerve that’s long been troubling the athlete, reported ESPN. Although Woods tried other methods to resolve the pain leading up to the Masters, it didn’t subside and his play consequently suffered. Without the confidence that he could play a competitive tournament in his current condition, Woods felt as thought the surgery was the only option.

"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.

"I'd like to express my disappointment to the Augusta National membership, staff, volunteers and patrons that I will not be at the Masters," he 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."

Woods also shared the disappointing news on Twitter:

Masters chairman Billy Payne released a statement of his own to applaud Woods for the way in which he kept them in loop about his status, and to wish for Woods recovery and return to the tournament in 2015.

"Tiger was gracious in keeping us updated of his condition and making us aware of his decision," Payne said "We wholeheartedly offered our best wishes for his immediate and long-term recovery. […] He is one of our most decorated champions and we look forward to his healthy return in 2015 and beyond."

It’s Woods’ hope that he’ll be rehabilitated by sometime this summer. The U.S. Open is just two months away, while the Open Championship at Royal Liverpool is scheduled for mid July.

– Chelsea Regan