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Woods undergoes operation, to miss next 3 Majors

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Woods won't play a Major in 2017

Former World number one Tiger Woods has undergone successful back surgery, his fourth to date, to alleviate ongoing pain in his back and leg.

This is the third operation in the last 19 months for the 14-time Major winner, the last of those coming at the US Open in 2008.

‘The surgery went well, and I’m optimistic this will relieve my back spasms and pain,’ Woods wrote on his website. ‘When healed, I look forward to getting back to a normal life, playing with my kids, competing in professional golf and living without the pain I have been battling so long.’

The operation was performed by Dr. Richard Guyer of the Center for Disc Replacement at the Texas Back Institute.

‘After he recovers from surgery, he will gradually begin his rehabilitation until he is completely healed,’ Guyer said. ‘Once that’s accomplished, his workouts will be geared to allowing him to return to competitive golf.

‘If you are going to have single-level fusion, the bottom level is the best place for it to occur. Some individuals are born with one less vertebrae, which would be similar to someone who had a single-level fusion,’ Guyer added.

Woods is now set to rest for several weeks, then begin therapy and treatment. While each procedure and case is unique, patients typically return to full activity in about six months.

‘I would like to thank all the fans for staying in touch and their kind wishes,’ Woods said. ‘The support I have received has never waned, and it really helps.’

Woods last appearance was during the Omega Dubai Desert Classic, where he withdrew after one round.