Tiger Woods says he is “disappointed” that he will miss next month’s Hero World Challenge in Albany, the Bahamas.

The 15-time major winner hosts the tournament – an unofficial event featuring 20 of the world’s top players – and was widely-expected to take an exemption spot in the competition which starts on 5 December.

Woods has not competed since he missed the halfway cut at The Open in July before undergoing back surgery in September.

“I am disappointed that I will not be able to compete this year, but always look forward to being tournament host,” Woods wrote on X.

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Woods returned after eight months out injured to play the tournament last year, finishing 18th.