Tiger can't shake leg, skips US Open

JACKSONVILLE, Florida – Tiger Woods pulled out of the US Open on Tuesday because of lingering issues with his left leg, leaving him uncertain how soon he can resume his pursuit of Jack Nicklaus’ record for major titles.

It will be the first time Woods has missed the US Open since 1994, when he had just graduated high school.

“I am extremely disappointed that I won’t be playing in the US Open, but it’s time for me to listen to my doctors and focus on the future,” Woods said on his website. “I was hopeful that I could play, but if I did, I risk further damage to my left leg. My knee and Achilles tendon are not fully healed.”

Woods said he hoped to be ready for the AT&T National, which starts June 30 at Aronomink, and the next two majors. Then again, he said two weeks ago he would do everything possible to be ready for the US Open, which is far more significant.

“We’re very disappointed that he won’t be playing in the National Open,” USGA executive director Mike Davis said, whom Woods called Tuesday morning. “He certainly brings excitement to the event. He’ll be missed, but the US Open will go on. The event is bigger than one player, but he certainly will be missed.”

The US Open starts June 16 at Congressional, where Woods won the AT&T National two years ago and tied for 19th when the US Open was last played there in 1997.

Woods was replaced by Michael Whitehead, a senior at Rice. (AP)