JACK NICKLAUS: Statement regarding the announcement that Tiger Woods was undergoing season-ending reconstructive knee surgery

In light of this week’s revelation about Tiger’s health, it makes his performance in the U.S. Open that much more phenomenal. I have always said that the U.S. Open is the most difficult and complete examination of a golfer, and for him to persevere with a damaged knee and stress fracture is a testament not only to his ability but his tremendously high level of competitiveness. He was obviously in pain, but he played right through it. To have a will as strong as that, I take my hat off to him.

As for Tiger’s season ending in this manner, I am sincerely sorry for him. I have had the opportunity to captain Tiger on four Presidents Cup teams and I know how intensely competitive he is. So I understand how difficult it is for him to walk away from the game, especially with two major championships and a Ryder Cup on the horizon. But I also know that Tiger is a very intelligent young man, and he has made a decision that is best for the long term and the rest of his career. For now, he needs to focus on his health and his quality of life, and it sounds as if that is what he is doing. He has earned this time off, although I realize he did not want it to happen this way, and I wish him well.

Tiger is one of the best-conditioned golfers I have ever been around, so I fully expect for him to do what is necessary to get back to competitive shape in the shortest amount of time possible and return strong next season. Personally, I look forward to that return. Tiger is a great person and great champion, and he is important to the game of golf.