Tiger Woods Withdraws From Masters, Ending Historic Comeback Bid
Tiger Woods withdrew from the 2026 Masters Tournament on Sunday morning, cutting short his highly anticipated return to Augusta National. The five-time champion cited persistent pain in his surgically repaired right leg after completing seven holes of his third round, which had been suspended due to weather on Saturday.
The 50-year-old golf legend was visibly struggling during his abbreviated play Saturday, limping between shots in damp conditions. Woods had made the cut Friday, extending his record streak to 24 consecutive Masters cuts made. His withdrawal marks the first time he's failed to finish the tournament as a professional.
Augusta National confirmed Woods' departure in a brief statement Sunday. Tournament officials said he left the grounds before play resumed at 8:30 AM ET. Woods had been 11-over par through 25 holes when play was halted Saturday.
The golf world reacted swiftly to the news, with CBS analyst Jim Nantz calling it "a heartbreaking moment for the sport." Woods' withdrawal dominated social media trends Sunday morning, with #TigerWoods and #TheMasters both trending nationally on Twitter.
This marks Woods' third withdrawal from a major championship since his February 2021 car crash that nearly cost him his right leg. He underwent multiple surgeries and made an emotional return to competition last year. Woods had previously stated this could be his final Masters appearance.
Fans who had packed Augusta's hillsides to watch Woods this week expressed disappointment Sunday. "We came specifically to see Tiger make history," said Mark Reynolds, 42, of Atlanta. "It's tough seeing him go out like this."
Woods' departure shifts attention to the tournament's new leaders, with world No. 1 Scottie Scheffler entering Sunday's final round with a three-shot advantage. ESPN will continue Masters coverage through the afternoon, with CBS taking over at 2 PM ET for the conclusion.
The Masters Committee confirmed all third-round play must be completed Sunday before beginning the final round. Tournament officials expect the champion to be crowned by early evening, weather permitting.
