GOLF:Tiger Woods Withdraws From Arnold Palmer Invitational To Prepare For Masters

TIGER Woods, who has won the Arnold Palmer Invitational eight times, announced Friday that he won’t take part in next week’s PGA Tour event.

The 39-year-old American, who is chasing Jack Nicklaus’s record of 18 major championships, has plummeted to 66th in the world rankings after suffering a series of injuries and a severe slump in form.
Woods has vowed not to return to competition until his game improves. “I spoke to Arnold today and told him that I will not play in his tournament this year. I’m sorry I won’t be in Orlando next week, but I know it will be a really successful event,” Woods said on his website.
“I’ve put in a lot of time and work on my game and I’m making strides, but like I’ve said, I won’t return to the PGA Tour until my game is tournament ready and I can compete at the highest level.” Woods, who last won the event at Bay Hill in 2013, has not played since withdrawing from the Farmers Insurance Open in early February.
Woods said he is still hopeful he can take part in The Masters on April 9. “I hope to be ready for the Masters, and I will continue to work hard preparing for Augusta,” said Woods. “I want to thank everyone again for their support.”