Tiger Woods Confirms He Withdrew from Genesis Invitational Due to the Flu

The golfer said Saturday he had to step back due to an illness.

LOS ANGELES—Tiger Woods issued a statement Saturday afternoon, saying the flu was his reason for withdrawing from the Genesis Invitational on Friday.

Woods, the tournament host, was making his 2024 debut at Riviera Country Club and his first official start since withdrawing from the Masters last April.

Given his numerous health-related issues in recent years, including back problems associated with spinal fusion surgery and leg injuries sustained during a car crash, there was initially concern that his exit was due to one of those issues.

But Woods reported to PGA Tour officials that he was ill and his friend, Rob McNamara, acknowledged that in a statement later in the day.

“I would like to confirm that I had to withdraw ... due to illness, which we now know is influenza,’’ Woods posted on X, formerly known as Twitter. “I am resting and feeling better. I’m disappointed not to be there and want to thank @GenesisUSA and all the fans for the support.’’

It was just Woods’ sixth official start since he returned two years ago from the car crash. He twice made the cut at the Masters, but withdrew during the third round last year. He also withdrew following the third round of the 2022 PGA Championship. Last year, he tied for 45th at the Genesis Invitational.

A subtalar fusion on Woods’ right ankle last April meant he would miss the rest of the golf season, but he returned in December at the unofficial Hero World Challenge, where he expressed optimism about this year because the pain in his ankle was gone.

Woods suggested a once-a-month schedule starting with the Genesis and playing the Players Championship next month would appear to be his next goal. It would leave him three tournament weeks off prior to the Masters.