Defending champion Retief Goosen has been forced to withdraw from the $2,5-million Qatar Masters suffering from vision problems, he announced on Wednesday.
He has been replaced by Sweden’s Henrik Nystrom.
Goosen came to Doha for the European PGA Tour event after undergoing corrective laser surgery ten days ago and was hoping to become the first player to win the event on two occasions.
However, during practice on Tuesday, his vision in one eye began to blur. He immediately travelled to Dubai for further treatment and was hopeful of playing the event, even on Tuesday night.
But he announced his withdrawal on Wednesday morning, saying he was still having problems with his sight.
Goosen said: ”I am obviously very sad that I am unable to defend my title. I came all this way to play but unfortunately the eye is causing a problem.
”I thought it would come good but it hasn’t. I went to Dubai yesterday [Tuesday] and the advice was to go back to London for treatment.
”I have had laser treatment before, seven years ago, and felt it needed a touch up, which I had done ten days ago. But there has been a bit of growth with a fibre in the left eye.
”It is a very simple procedure to take it out and the advice was to do it sooner.
”It is a shame as I love this event, love this course and I can’t remember the last time I pulled out of a tournament.
”I think I pulled out of the Scottish Open once with a back injury but that is all. You are never happy leaving a tournament without teeing it up.”
Hassan Al Nuami, president of the Qatar Golf Association said: ”The Qatar Golf Association did everything in their power to ensure Retief was able to see a specialist. Obviously it is a disappointment with Retief being the defending champion.
”He has been a great ambassador and champion for us and we look forward to him returning to regain his title.”
American Ryder Cup player Scott Verplank was also forced to withdraw from the Wednesday Pro-Am suffering from a stomach complaint. — AFP
