World number one Tiger Woods has officially entered the Open Championship in St Andrews in July.
The superstar golfer, however, must first overcome a neck injury which flared up at the Players Championship this month.
Woods (34) was forced to pull out during the final round of the event at Sawgrass, and revealed afterwards that he has played with a bad neck for a while.
A scan confirmed the golfer has an inflamed facet joint, causing pain in the affected area as well as headaches and difficulty rotating his head.
On his website Woods, who only recently returned to competitive golf following a self-imposed exile, said, “I want to thank everyone for their caring and concern.
“I now need to take care of this condition and will return to playing golf when I’m physically able.”
The prognosis for Woods is a full recovery, although a return date to the fairways has not been set.
But one incentive sure to spur on his recovery in time for the Open is the chance to become the only player ever to lift the Claret Jug three times at the famous links course.
He has already won there in 2000 and 2005.
There is also the opportunity to move a step closer to surpassing the impressive haul of 18 major title wins held by golfing great Jack Nicklaus. To date, Woods has won 14 majors.
The Open Championship will be held from July 15-18.