Tiger Woods Announces Injury, to Miss British Open

Despite refusing to comment on his status only a week ago, Tiger Woods announced in a statement today that he will miss this month's British Open due to injury.

Woods, said in a statement today on his website, Unfortunately, I've been advised that I should not play in the British Open, Woods said. As I stated at the AT&T National, I am only going to come back when I'm 100 percent ready. I do not want to risk further injury. That's different for me, but I'm being smarter this time. I'm very disappointed and want to express my regrets to the British Open fans.

Woods has been plagued by left knee and Achilles injuries he suffered during April's Masters golf tournament. He tried to return to the Players Championship in May but lasted only nine holes before having to withdraw from the event.

In hindsight, I probably shouldn't have competed at THE PLAYERS, but it's a big event, and I wanted to be there to support the tour, Woods said. I've got to learn from what I did there and do it right this time and not come back until I'm ready.

Woods has seen relative success in the British Open in the past, winning the event three times, most recently in 2006. The event held this year at Royal St. George's Golf Club in Sandwich, England is disappointed the sport's most marketable star will be unable to play.

I know how disappointed Tiger is not to be able to play in The Open this year, Peter Dawson, chief executive officer of the Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St. Andrews, said in a statement. Naturally, we are sorry that a player of his caliber isn't able to join us at Royal St. George's, but we wish him well in his recovery and hope to see him back soon.

Woods, ranked the world's 17^th best player, has not won an event since 2009 when he won the BMW Championship. The 35-year old golfer is also likely doubtful to play in the year's last major championship, the PGA Championship, in August.

Despite the recent setbacks, Woods is still optimistic about his future golf prospects.

I think my best years are still ahead of me, and I'm very confident and optimistic about the future.