Just three days after confirming his participation, Woods withdrew from the event. “I planned to tee it up this week, but I’m just not ready,” Woods shared in his withdrawal statement. “I did my best to prepare, knowing it’s what my Mom would have wanted, but I’m still processing her loss.” The 15x major winner won’t be playing, but he will be there as the tournament host, probably on Sunday for the trophy and prize money ceremony. With Matsuyama returning as the defending champion, his quest for back-to-back titles carries additional meaning. Yes, not many players have done it, but he hopes to get that photo, he did not last year.

“Obviously I’m looking forward to defend my title this week and I’ve heard some rumor that Tiger might be here this Sunday, so hopefully I get that trophy and get that picture with him this week,” he shared. After his 2024 win, the Japanese golfer met with Woods at the Masters. The 82x Tour winner gave him a big smile and congratulated him. “So, that kind of made it extra special, that winning at Riviera,” Matsuyama reflected on the experience.