Tiger Woods has been a staple at the PNC Championship for years, teeing it up alongside his son in one of golf’s most anticipated family events. But this year, things seem to be taking a turn. After undergoing back surgery in September, his status for the event had been uncertain, and now it’s official: he won’t be playing.

Just ahead of hosting the Hero World Challenge, Tiger Woods confirmed the news, noting he’s only recently been cleared to start chipping and putting again. A post from NUCLR Golf on X shared Tiger’s update. “🚨🐅🏌️ #NEW — Tiger Woods on where he is in the rehab process following back surgery 6 weeks ago, “I just got cleared last week to chip and putt.” Tiger gave no solid timeline for his return to professional golf or on what his schedule will look like going forward.”

He also made it clear he won’t be competing in this year’s PNC, marking a rare break in a tradition that fans have come to love.

Last year’s star-studded field brought together champions who had amassed 69 major titles, 40 senior majors, and more than 1,000 international victories. The lineup featured five former winners and welcomed two debut teams, adding even more excitement to an already elite event. Then, world No. 1 Nelly Korda headlined the field, with more than half the competitors having reached the top spot in the world rankings at some point in their illustrious careers.

This is a developing story…