​Why Did Collin Morikawa Withdraw? Latest Updates from The Players Championship 2026

Breaking: Collin Morikawa withdraws from The Players Championship 2026 due to a sudden back injury at TPC Sawgrass. Get the latest injury updates, official statements, and what this means for the PGA Tour."

​PONTE VEDRA BEACH, FL — In a shocking turn of events at TPC Sawgrass, world No. 4 Collin Morikawa has officially withdrawn from The Players Championship 2026 after completing just one hole during his opening round on Thursday, March 12.

​What Happened to Collin Morikawa?

​Morikawa started his day at the 10th hole, making a solid par to begin his quest for the PGA Tour's flagship title. However, the situation took a drastic turn on the 11th tee box. While taking a practice swing, the two-time major champion was seen reaching for his lower back in visible discomfort.

​After a brief discussion with his caddie, Mark Urbanek, and a consultation with a PGA Tour trainer on the course, Morikawa made the difficult decision to withdraw. He was seen leaving the course in a golf cart, looking visibly distraught as his tournament ended almost as soon as it began.

​Official Injury Update

​The PGA Tour confirmed that a back injury (specifically back tightness/spasms) was the cause of his withdrawal. Morikawa, who was a heavy favorite this week after his recent win at Pebble Beach, expressed his frustration to the media:

"I felt fine in the warm-up, but on that practice swing on 11, I just knew it was gone. I’ve had this feeling before, and I simply couldn't swing through it."

​Impact on The Players Championship

​Morikawa was entering the week as the FedExCup points leader and one of the hottest players on tour. His exit leaves a significant void in the field. Since he had already started his round, he will not be replaced by an alternate, leaving his playing partners Ludvig Aberg and Si Woo Kim to continue as a twosome.

​What’s Next for Morikawa?

​Fans are now concerned about Morikawa’s status for the upcoming Major season. While he believes the injury is muscular rather than structural, a back issue can be tricky for a golfer who relies on precision ball-striking