Full Breakdown
Collin Morikawa Withdraws from The Players Championship Due to Back Injury
3/12/2026, 10:44:45 PM
Sudden Withdrawal at TPC Sawgrass
Collin Morikawa, the world’s fourth-ranked golfer and a two-time major champion, withdrew from The Players Championship after playing just one hole on March 12, 2026. Morikawa, who started his round on the back nine, made par on the 10th hole but experienced discomfort during a practice swing on the 11th tee, prompting him to withdraw from the tournament. He was visibly in pain, reaching for his lower back and subsequently calling for a trainer before leaving the course in a golf cart.
Morikawa's Experience and Reaction
Morikawa expressed his frustration regarding the injury, stating, “I felt fine in warm-up. Like nothing’s been any signs of back problems. And teed it up on 11, and took one practice swing, and I just knew it was gone.” He described the moment as a “weird deja vu,” recalling previous back issues that had sidelined him. “Trust me, I would play if I could. It’s just the worst thing in the world,” he added, indicating the emotional toll of the situation.
This withdrawal marks a significant setback for Morikawa, who had recently won the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am and achieved top finishes at the Genesis Invitational and Arnold Palmer Invitational. His performance leading up to The Players had positioned him as one of the favorites to win the tournament.
Background on Morikawa's Injury History
Morikawa has a history of back issues, having faced similar problems during the 2021 Tokyo Olympics and the 2023 Memorial Tournament. His recent focus on physical fitness and strength training had aimed to mitigate such injuries, making this incident particularly disappointing for him and his supporters.
Official Statements & Responses
Following his withdrawal, Morikawa stated, “I’ve had this stuff before, and been healthy all throughout the year, been moving weight and pushing, going fast.” He emphasized the unpredictability of such injuries and his commitment to recovery, stating, “It’s going to take a little bit of time.” His immediate focus is on regaining health in preparation for the upcoming Masters Tournament.
Criticism & Opposition
While Morikawa's withdrawal has drawn sympathy from fans and fellow players, it also highlights the ongoing challenges athletes face with injuries, particularly in high-stakes tournaments. The incident raises questions about the physical demands placed on professional golfers and the potential need for more comprehensive injury management strategies.
What's Next for Morikawa
As Morikawa recuperates, he aims to return to competitive form ahead of the Masters, scheduled for next month. His ability to recover quickly will be crucial, as he seeks to maintain his momentum from a strong start to the 2026 season. Meanwhile, his playing partners, Ludvig Åberg and Si Woo Kim, will continue the tournament as a twosome following his withdrawal.
In summary, Collin Morikawa's abrupt exit from The Players Championship underscores the unpredictability of sports injuries and the impact they can have on athletes' careers and aspirations.
