Lilia Vu had to pass on the opportunity to defend her first Major title. The 26-year-old has withdrawn from the Chevron Championship due to a back injury. Vu said in an official statement that her back issue flared up again in the warm-up session, forcing her to head home for recovery.

“I have been dealing with a back injury for a while now. Some days are better than others, and today was unfortunately not a good day. During my normal warm-up routine, I had severe discomfort in my back and I felt that I could not compete up to my standards and made the decision to withdraw from the tournament ahead of my tee time. I am planning to return home to see my doctors immediately to determine the best appropriate next steps.”

Speaking before the Chevron Championship, Lilia Vu conceded that she hasn’t been at her best this season. Even in Texas, she was performing only at 95%. “It’s been a little scary. I’ve definitely cried a lot on the range sometimes because my back just couldn’t hold up. … If I can stay healthy this week, I think I’ll be able to do what I need to do,” Lilia Vu said in the pre-tournament press conference. 

This is Vu’s third withdrawal this year. The former World No. 1 had to bow out from the final round of the HSBC Women’s World Championship last month. After that, she also withdrew from the Blue Bay LPGA in China because of an undisclosed injury. 

Last year, too, the 26-year-old suffered a back injury at the Mizuho America’s Open. She had to withdraw and take a month-long break. The 2023 Rolex Player of the Year returned to the KPMG Women’s PGA Championship. She missed the cut after shooting 72 and 76 to finish 6 over par. 

Once again, at the Solheim Cup, fans were concerned to see a pink patch on her wrist. Fortunately, that didn’t lead to any serious issues. But the recurring back problem appears to be more serious. Naturally, LPGA peers and fans have rallied behind the defending champion. 

Fans and LPGA Tour pros stand by Lilia Vu

Vu failed to carry on the strong momentum from her breakout season last year when he won two major championships. Her lone top-10 this season came at the Honda LPGA Thailand. Since then, she has withdrawn twice and finished outside the top 20. Her withdrawal from the first major of the LPGA calendar was the latest setback.

Patty Tavatanakit, her LPGA Tour colleague, commented, “Feel better,” with a heart emoji. The Chevron Championship commented from their official handle. “Wishing you all the best.” Nelly Korda, who is in contention to win her second Major and notch five back-to-back victories, wrote, “Get well soon.”

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With the Chevron Championship, the LPGA kicks into the major season. Only three tournaments are there between Chevron and the US Women’s Open. Fans surely hope that she recovers in time, to get into gear for the second major. “Hoping for a speedy recovery.” “Get well soon and comeback stronger.” Positive notes filled the comment section. 

Some also hoped that Vu could tee up at the next event, the JM Eagle LA Championship on April 25. However, it’s not clear how long the recovery and rehab will take for the four-time LPGA Tour winner.