Devastated Players Championship contender withdraws after one hole to spark Masters fears

Collin Morikawa dramatically withdrew from The Players Championship on the second tee.

The in-form American was taking a practice swing and winced in pain before walking away holding his back.

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He headed straight for a cart, looking devastated, and minutes later it was confirmed that he had pulled out of the tournament.

Rory McIlroy is also struggling with a back injury and his status is up in the air.

The Northern Irishman has been unable to practice, but will attempt to play.

“It’s better than it was,” McIlroy said of his back, ahead of his scheduled title defence.

“I’ve got about 20 hours until I tee off, or until I’m supposed to tee off tomorrow, so we’ll see.

“But it feels better. That’s all I can say. I couldn’t stand to address the ball on Saturday morning on the range at Bay Hill, and it’s obviously better than that.”

With under a month to go until The Masters, both players will be determined to get back in full health.

Two-time major champion Morikawa, who has already won on the PGA Tour this season, had been installed as second-favourite for the Players after McIlroy’s injury problems.

World no.1 Scottie Scheffler is still the favourite despite a difficult start to the 2026 season.

More to follow…