RYDER CUP: Tiger Woods Rules Himself Out Due To Back Problems

Former world number one Tiger Woods has ruled himself out of contention for a wildcard spot on the US Ryder Cup team due to lingering back problems and has been told by doctors not to play or practice until his condition improves.

Tiger Woods of the United States tips his cap after playing the 18th hole during the second round of the 96th PGA Championship at Valhalla

Woods, who had surgery in March to treat a pinched nerve and has played just eight tournaments this year, asked US captain Tom Watson not to consider him for one of three wildcard picks for the biennial team competition against Europe next month.

GOLF: MASTERS TOURNAMENT - Stadler & Son Set To Make Masters History

Craig Stadler is ready for "a very, very cool" experience at this week's Masters where he and his son Kevin will become the first father-son duo to compete together in the season's opening Major.

Kevin Stadler made it all possible when he won his maiden US PGA Tour title at the Phoenix Open in February, and just in time with his father planning to make his final appearance at Augusta National in this year's edition.

"I can't think of a better way to do it (make his Masters swansong) than playing with your son in the same tournament," former champion Craig Stadler said at a rain-drenched Augusta National on Monday with his son sitting by his side.