Hideki Matsuyama Withdraws from Wells Fargo with Back Injury

Matsuyama experienced tightness in his back during training early Thursday. Despite hopes for recovery, the condition did not improve by his 1:28 p.m. ET tee time, leading to his withdrawal. 

“I suffered tightness in my back this morning during training and it never loosened up enough to start the first round,” Matsuyama revealed in a statement. He further expressed his regrets for not being able to tee it up this weekend, thanking the Wells Fargo Championship and Quail Hollow Club for their hospitality.

With Matsuyama out, the field now narrows down, intensifying the competition among the remaining participants. Notably, his scheduled partners, 2023 FedExCup champion Viktor Hovland and Sahith Theegala, will proceed as a twosome for the initial rounds.

Matsuyama, currently ranked sixth in the FedExCup standings, won the Genesis Invitational earlier this year marking a significant milestone alongside strong finishes at THE PLAYERS Championship and the Valero Texas Open. However, the 32-year-old's recent injury now raises concerns about his readiness for the looming PGA Championship at Valhalla Golf Club.

This is not the first time Matsuyama has grappled with injuries, having withdrawn from four events over the past two seasons. His dedication and talent have made him a beloved figure in the sport, characterized by his nine PGA TOUR wins, including his triumphant 2021 Masters victory.