Tiger Woods is out of next week's US Open - the first time he has missed the event since his 1995 debut.
The knee and achilles injuries which forced him out of the Players Championship after just nine holes a month ago led to his withdrawal from the second major of the season.
He told his official website: 'I am extremely disappointed that I won't be playing in the US Open, but it's time for me to listen to my doctors and focus on the future.'
Missing out: Woods kisses the US Open trophy after the last of his three tournament wins in 2008
The former world number one's statement continued: 'I was hopeful that I could play, but if I did I risk further damage to my left leg.
'My knee and achilles tendon are not fully healed. I hope to be ready for AT&T National (on June 30-July 3), the next two majors and the rest of the year.'
Woods was diagnosed with a Grade 1 mild medial collateral ligament sprain to his left knee and a mild strain to his left achilles tendon suffered while hitting a second shot on the 17th hole during the third round at the Masters.
He was unable to play the Wells Fargo Championship and limped through nine holes in 42 shots - only one off his worst ever - before quitting at Sawgrass.
The last of Woods' 14 major victories came at the 2008 US Open despite a ruptured cruciate ligament in his knee and a double stress fracture of the left tibia, but was told then by doctors that playing in the tournament would not make his leg worse.
'It's been a frustrating and difficult year, but I'm committed to my long-term health,' Woods added.
'I want to thank the fans for their encouragement and support. I am truly grateful and will be back playing when I can.'
After that 2008 win Woods went in for immediate surgery and was out for eight months. He missed the Open at Birkdale and US PGA at Oakland Hills as a result.
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