What is plantar fasciitis, the reason for Tiger Woods pulling out of Hero World Challenge?

On Monday Tiger Woods’ return to competitive golf was delayed again after he announced that he has withdrawn from this week’s Hero World Challenge in the Bahamas. Woods, 46, is also the host of the highly anticipated event, which features a small field consisting of 20 elite players, including world number two Scottie Scheffler, as well as major champions Justin Thomas and Jordan Spieth.

Arguably the greatest golfer of all time, Woods was scheduled to take part in three events in December, but the announcement of his foot injury on social media has put all three in jeopardy. His statement read.

“In my preparation and practice for this week’s Hero World Challenge, I’ve developed plantar fasciitis in my right foot, which is making it difficult to walk.

What is plantar fasciitis?

The condition known as plantar fasciitis is a pain on the bottom of the foot, around the heel and arch. Often it will go away but it’s worth seeking medical attention if it does not improve within 2 weeks.

You are likely to have plantar fasciitis if the pain is much worse when you start walking after sleeping or resting; the pain feels better during exercise, but returns after resting; and it’s difficult to raise your toes off the floor.

As Tiger explained, “After consulting with my doctors and trainers, I have decided to withdraw this week and focus on my hosting duties. My plan is to still compete in The Match and PNC Championship.”

Woods and McIlroy to partner up

Woods, who has not played competitively since failing to make the cut at The Masters in July, will not have long to recover. He is scheduled to partner up with Rory McIlroy to take on the pair of Thomas and Spieth on December 10 for The Match, and just five days later he hopes to team up with his son, Charlie, in the PNC Championship.

With his withdrawal from the Hero World Challenge, Austria’s Sepp Straka will take his place.