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Collin Morikawa Withdraws from Players Championship with Back Injury

3/12/2026

26 6 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Collin Morikawa, the world No. 4 golfer, withdrew from The Players Championship on March 12, 2026, after playing just one hole due to a back injury.
Morikawa felt discomfort during a practice swing on the 11th hole and called a trainer.
Morikawa described the moment as a "deja vu".
Morikawa recently won the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am.
Morikawa is second to withdraw, after Ryan Fox, who left earlier due to illness.

History

Historical Context

Established in 1974 by PGA Tour commissioner Deane Beman, The Players Championship aimed to enhance golf's prestige. The tournament has evolved significantly, moving to TPC Sawgrass in 1982 and becoming known as the "fifth major." Recent withdrawals by top players like Collin Morikawa and Ryan Fox highlight the physical demands of professional golf, echoing the injury challenges faced by stars like Greg Norman in 1994.

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Story summary

Collin Morikawa, the world No. 4 golfer, withdrew from The Players Championship on March 12, 2026, after playing just one hole due to a back injury.
Morikawa felt discomfort during a practice swing on the 11th hole and called a trainer.
Morikawa described the moment as a "deja vu".
Morikawa recently won the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am.
Morikawa is second to withdraw, after Ryan Fox, who left earlier due to illness.

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