Tiger Woods absent as field confirmed for next week’s The Players Championship at TPC Sawgrass

Tiger Woods has opted against entering next week’s Players Championship.

Despite being down the world rankings, he’s currently at 984, Woods had the option to put his name on the start list for the event at TPC Sawgrass next week due to his exemption status.

Woods suffered serious injuries in a car crash in 2021, and his movement was severely restricted during his appearances in the Masters, US PGA Championship and Open Championship in 2022.

The 47-year-old said following his appearance in the Genesis that his schedule would be limited, and he gave no indication as to whether he would tee it up at the Players.

That question has now been answered, with Woods’ name not featuring on the entry list for the unofficial fifth major.

With Woods not in the field for the Players, it is highly likely that his next appearance will be at the Masters in April.

Cameron Smith won the Players 12 months ago, but he will not be in the field as he is not eligible to play following his move to LIV Golf last year.

In a statement released on Friday, officials championed the fact that “49 of the top 50 players in the current FedExCup Playoffs and Eligibility Points List” will be in the field. Ben Taylor is the only absentee.

There is still a chance for two players to play their way in, as spots in the field are open to winners of the Arnold Palmer Invitational and the Puerto Rico Open – provided they are not already eligible.