Tiger Woods undergoes further back surgery
The 14-time major champion said his latest operation was a success and he is optimistic that he can return to full fitness.
Tiger Woods is expected to be out for at least another six months after revealing he has undergone back surgery.
The 14-time major champion this week stated that he was "progressing" with his recovery after being out since withdrawing from the Dubai Desert Classic in February citing back spasms.
But the legendary American has gone under the knife again at the Texas Back Institute, so he will not play in any of the four majors this year.
Woods said: "The surgery went well, and I'm optimistic this will relieve my back spasms and pain,
"When healed, I look forward to getting back to a normal life, playing with my kids, competing in professional golf and living without the pain I have been battling so long."
Despite the 41-year-old's positivity, his latest procedure will lead to further doubts over his career after so many setbacks.
Woods has now undergone surgery four times and must now rest for several weeks before starting therapy and treatment.
Dr. Richard Guyer, who performed the operation, said: "After he recovers from surgery, he will gradually begin his rehabilitation until he is completely healed.
"Once that's accomplished, his workouts will be geared to allowing him to return to competitive golf.
"If you are going to have single-level fusion, the bottom level is the best place for it to occur. Some individuals are born with one less vertebrae, which would be similar to someone who had a single-level fusion."
