Tiger Woods SUDDEN departure overshadows Will Zalatoris’ ace performance at The Genesis Invitational

Tiger Woods pulls out of The Genesis Invitational because of flu-like symptoms, Stealing the spotlight from Will Zalatoris.

Tiger Woods SUDDEN departure overshadows Will Zalatoris’ ace performance at The Genesis Invitational

Will Zalatoris and Tiger Woods [Image Credit: Imago]

Tiger Woods had to cut short his comeback at the Genesis Invitational after experiencing dizziness and running a fever. Marking his second withdrawal from a PGA Tour event this year. Unfortunately, this setback stole the spotlight from an incredible display by Will Zalatoris, who aced the par-3 16th hole during the second round.

Zalatoris’s tee shot on par-3 14th at Riviera Country Club landed straight into the cup for a hole-in-one, leading to a double celebration. He not only secured the standard Genesis Invitational prize of a Genesis GV80 for a golfer who achieves an ace on the 14th hole but also an extra Genesis Electrified GV70 for the caddie.

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Zalatoris recalled his second hole-in-one in his professional career, reminiscing about the first one at the U.S. Open in 2020 at Winged Foot. He vividly remembers the challenging 180-yard pin with the wind against him, aiming between the bunkers. Although the shot was slightly off, the ball landed perfectly and rolled into the hole. Providing a stroke of luck and a pleasant surprise. 

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Zalatoris explained that typically, scoring 1-under involves two birdies and a bogey, but unexpected bogeys and an ace were not part of their original plan. Nonetheless, they embraced the outcome with joy on that course.

Tiger Woods withdraws from Genesis Invitational due to illness

In a disappointing turn of events, Tiger Woods has made the difficult decision to withdraw from the Genesis Invitational. Suffering from flu symptoms and dehydration, Woods had no choice but to prioritize his health. Although he had been dealing with back spasms earlier in the week, it was confirmed that the issues were unrelated to his current condition.

Rob McNamara and Tiger Woods
Rob McNamara and Tiger Woods ( Image via PGA Tour )

According to Rob McNamara, EVP of TGR Ventures, Woods started feeling unwell night before, experiencing flu-like symptoms that worsened by morning. Despite feeling slightly better during warm-up, dizziness quickly set in once he started moving around. Doctors diagnosed him with a form of flu and dehydration, but after receiving treatment through an IV bag. He now showing signs of improvement and will soon be discharged.

When questioned about the potential impact of Woods’ previous injuries on his withdrawal. McNamara emphasized that this was purely a medical issue. “His back is not the problem. This was due to a medical condition, particularly dehydration, which is now being addressed with the IV treatment.”

While it is undoubtedly disappointing that Woods won’t be able to compete, the most important thing is his health and recovery. Everyone is eagerly anticipating his swift return to the golf course, where he can once again showcase his incredible talent.

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