Back injury will force Tiger Woods to miss the 2014 Masters

By Luke Kerr-Dineen__

__ Tiger Woods will be missing the Masters for the first time in his career, he announced though an official statement on his website Tuesday. It will be the first time since 1994 that Woods will miss the year's first major.

Related: Tiger Woods has had his share of injuries big and small. According to the official statement on TigerWoods.com, the World No. 1 underwent back surgery for a pinched nerve in recent weeks, and despite holding out hope that he would be ready for the Masters, his doctors have advised him focus on "rehabilitation and getting healthy."

Sad to say I'm missing the Masters. Thanks to the fans for so many kind wishes. http://t.co/Ofbre9VHEL

-- Tiger Woods (@TigerWoods) April 1, 2014Related: Is it time to look beyond Tiger and Phil?

According to the site: "After attempting to get ready for the Masters, and failing to make the necessary progress, I decided, in consultation with my doctors, to have this procedure done," Woods said. "I'd like to express my disappointment to the Augusta National membership, staff, volunteers and patrons that I will not be at the Masters," Tiger added. "It's a week that's very special to me. It also looks like I'll be forced to miss several upcoming tournaments to focus on my rehabilitation and getting healthy. "I'd also like to thank the fans for their support and concern. It's very kind and greatly appreciated. This is frustrating, but it's something my doctors advised me to do for my immediate and long-term health." Tiger Woods didn't set an official date for his return, but it is expected to be back sometime this summer. Ordinarily, Woods plays at Quail Hollow, the Players, and the Memorial before the U.S. Open, but his planned participation in those tournaments is also unknown.