Tiger Woods withdrew from The Genesis Invitational during the second round after suffering from “flu-like symptoms” and being “treated with an IV bag,” his longtime business partner Rob McNamara told reporters on Friday.
Tiger Woods reacts to his shot from the sixth tee during the second round of The Genesis Invitational at Riviera Country Club on February 16, 2024. Ronald Martinez/Getty Images
The PGA Tour had announced Woods’ withdrawal from the tournament earlier on Friday.
“He had a little bit of a fever and that, and was better during the warm-up, but then when he got out there and was walking and playing, he started feeling dizzy,” McNamara continued.
“Ultimately the doctors are saying he’s got some … type of flu and that he was dehydrated. He’s been treated with an IV bag and he’s doing much, much better, and he’ll be released on his own here soon.”
The 15-time major champion was one-over through six holes before exiting the course on a golf cart during Friday’s second round and two-over par for the whole tournament.
The 48-year-old – restricted to a limited schedule after suffering serious leg injuries in a car crash in 2021 – had not featured at a PGA Tour event since playing the Hero World Challenge in the Bahamas in December. He returned to the tournament scene for The Genesis Invitational, an event he hosts in Southern California.
PGA Tour rules official Mark Dusabek told the Golf Channel broadcast Woods wasn’t feeling well.
Woods acknowledged he was dealing with back spasms for the final three holes of his opening round on Thursday. However, Dusabek said Woods’ back was not the reason behind his withdrawal.
“Not what we’re being told by him right now,” Dusbabek said. “I’m sure that’s part and parcel to the reason but he’s not feeling well he’s feeling ill right now.”
Woods has said he hoped to play one tournament a month this year.
The Genesis Invitational continues through Sunday. Patrick Cantlay currently leads, sitting at 10-under for the tournament.
