Collin Morikawa Withdraws from The Players Championship Due to Back Injury

Collin Morikawa's participation in The Players Championship was abruptly cut short when he withdrew after just one hole due to a back injury. The two-time major champion began his round at TPC Sawgrass on March 12, 2026, but felt discomfort after taking a practice swing on the 11th tee, which was his second hole. Morikawa stated, “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.” Following this realization, he consulted with his trainer and decided he could not continue.

Collin Morikawa withdraws from THE PLAYERS after one hole with back injuryHITCMorikawa’s Early WD Sinks (Some) Bets

Morikawa revealed that this was not the first occurrence of such an injury, indicating a history of back issues. He expressed frustration over the situation, stating, “Trust me, I would play if I could. It’s just the worst thing in the world.” His sudden withdrawal raised concerns about his fitness for the remainder of the PGA Tour season, especially with four major championships approaching.

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Morikawa's early exit had significant implications for bettors and fantasy sports participants. As a popular choice to win the tournament, his withdrawal led to a flurry of adjustments in betting markets. FanDuel voided all bets placed on Morikawa, while DraftKings refunded bets but recorded them as losses for fantasy players. This situation highlighted the inherent risks associated with betting on sports, particularly in golf, where injuries can lead to unexpected withdrawals.

Morikawa’s Early WD Sinks (Some) Bets

The golf community's reaction to Morikawa's withdrawal was mixed. Some fans expressed disappointment, suggesting he should have attempted to play through the injury. However, others defended his decision, emphasizing the unpredictability of back injuries and the importance of player health. A commentator noted, “There is probably a conversation to be had about injury transparency/reporting prior to events,” suggesting that the PGA Tour should improve communication regarding player fitness.

Morikawa’s Early WD Sinks (Some) Bets

Following his withdrawal, Morikawa's sentiments were echoed by various commentators who recognized the challenges athletes face with injuries. The consensus among analysts was that Morikawa's health should take precedence over competitive pressures, with one stating, “Morikawa is more upset than anyone who is gambling on the tournament.”

Morikawa’s Early WD Sinks (Some) Bets

As the PGA Tour season progresses, Morikawa's fitness will be closely monitored. His ability to recover from this back issue will be critical as he prepares for upcoming tournaments, including the major championships that lie ahead. The golfing world will be watching to see how he manages his health and performance in the coming weeks.

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