Tiger Woods withdrew on Sunday from next week’s Dubai Desert Classic with war looming in nearby Iraq.
In a brief statement from the organisers, Woods said he had decided it was ”prudent” not to travel to the tournament, which is played on the Majlis Course just a few kilometres from the Persian Gulf.
”Although I originally intended to play this week, I have reluctantly decided to postpone my appearance until the 15th event is staged next season,” organisers quoted Woods as saying.
”The organisers of the event have been extremely cooperative and supportive and I appreciate their understanding,” he added. ”They offered tremendous support and security for this proposed trip, however for the foreseeable future I felt it would be most prudent to avoid international travel.”
With the world’s number one player out, world number two Ernie Els will be the favourite to defend his title. Els has elected to play. So has Mark O’Meara, Woods’ friend and Florida neighbour.
Colin Montgomery and Nick Faldo were among other top players who had already pulled out. Woods was to have received an appearance fee worth more than $2-million to play in Dubai.
”While we are disappointed with Tiger’s decision to withdraw from the 2003 Dubai Desert Classic, we are delighted he has immediately confirmed his participation next year,” said Mohamed Ali Alabbar, vice chairman of the tournament.
”Losing Tiger from this week’s lineup will be disappointing to his many fans in this part of the world, but we reluctantly have to respect his decision not to compete.”
Woods played the event two years ago and lost on the 72nd and final hole to Thomas Bjorn of Denmark. Woods declined to speculate about his other overseas plans, such as the Deutsche Bank-SAP Open in Germany in May, although he said he would play the British Open in England.
”If I can walk, if I can play golf, I’ll be there,” he said. Woods said his high profile presented him with a different set of circumstances than other top players, particularly in a region so close to Iraq. ”You have to be honest about it,” he said. – Sapa-AP