Collin Morikawa Withdraws from 2026 Players Championship
“I felt fine in warm-up. Like no signs of back problems. And teed it up on 11, and took one practice swing, and I just knew it was gone,” said Collin Morikawa, reflecting on his abrupt withdrawal from the 2026 Players Championship.
Morikawa, who entered the tournament as the FedEx Cup leader, played only one hole before deciding to withdraw due to a back injury. The 29-year-old golfer was seen stretching in pain on the 11th hole, which ultimately led to his decision to exit the event.
This marked Morikawa’s sixth appearance at The Players Championship, where he was considered one of the favorites to win. His recent form had been impressive, as he had finished fifth at the Arnold Palmer Invitational just a week prior and had recorded 13 consecutive rounds under par.
Earlier this season, Morikawa secured a victory at the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am, further solidifying his status as a top competitor in the golf world. However, the lingering back issues that have affected him in the past resurfaced at a critical moment.
“It’s just the worst thing in the world,” Morikawa added, expressing his frustration over the injury. He noted that he had been healthy throughout the year, engaging in rigorous training and weightlifting.
Despite his efforts to maintain fitness, the sudden setback has raised concerns about his ability to compete in upcoming tournaments. Morikawa’s history of back problems, which have troubled him in both 2021 and 2023, adds to the uncertainty surrounding his condition.
After withdrawing, Morikawa was carted back to the clubhouse, leaving fans and analysts wondering about the implications for his season. As he navigates this injury, the golf community will be watching closely to see how he recovers and when he will return to competitive play.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding the severity of Morikawa’s back injury and his expected timeline for recovery. His next steps in the FedEx Cup and future tournaments remain uncertain as he focuses on healing.
