This year’s Masters marked the 87th edition of the iconic tournament in golf history. While there have been ups and downs, the tournament was as eagerly awaited as always. The Masters event this year has had several bumpy rides. Both the players on the course and the spectators have had a difficult time. With heavy rains suspending the play on multiple occasions, things have been really chaotic at the Augusta National.

While fans rejoiced as Tiger Woods made the cut, things went downhill pretty soon for fans especially Tiger Woods’ fans as the legend has withdrawn from the Masters.

Woods reveals the real reason behind his withdrawal

After coming into his comeback season, the 5-times Masters winner surely caught everyone by surprise when he made the cut. Having made the cut 23 times in a row now, things turned pretty bad for Woods in the third round. Just a day after revealing his wish to play the last two rounds too due to an injury scare, the Hall of Famer has certainly got caught in the injury mess again.

Read more: Agony at Augusta: Tiger Woods Breaks Millions of Hearts With Gut-Wrenching Announcement at the Masters

The injury was initially unknown to the viewers after he withdrew from the Masters due to a reported injury. However, Woods has now provided a statement himself revealing the reason behind his withdrawal. In the statement the 15-times majors winner said, “I am disappointed to have to withdraw this morning due to reaggravating my plantar fasciitis. Thank you to the fans and to the Masters who have shown me so much love and support. Good luck to the players today!”

While the cause of the injury is yet unknown. The circumstances, however, might be related to his car accident from two years ago. Woods has been battling injuries since the tragedy and this injury may be connected to it. However, the 82-times PGA Tour winner also battled the same injury last year too and there might be more concerns around it this time. Citing the last year’s withdrawal with the same injury, there might be major concerns regarding Woods’ long-term fitness.

What does plantar fasciitis mean and how bad can it affect a golfer like Tiger Woods?

Any damage or trauma to the bottom of the foot is referred to as a plantar fasciitis injury. Depending on the type and severity of the damage, these injuries might range from minor to serious. Plantar fasciitis, stress fractures, torn ligaments, and severe abrasions are a few of these. The recovery period ranges from several weeks to several months depending upon the extent and seriousness of the injury.

The location and depth of the damage, the person’s age, and their general health will all have an impact on how quick the recovery is. Golfers may find plantar injuries particularly frustrating because they can restrict their mobility and make it challenging to participate in their favorite activity.

Along with physical therapy or other types of rehabilitation, treatment options may include rest, ice, compression, and elevation. Surgery can be required in rare circumstances to heal more serious damage.

Woods, however, is suffering from a mild to severe condition. Taking into consideration his age, previous injury records and his current health condition, this might be a big blow for him. Also considering his last year’s struggles with the same injury, it remains to be seen how serious it is this time.

Watch this story: Minutes After Making History at the Masters, Tiger Woods Makes a Bizarre ‘Wish,’ Raising Concerns About His Health