PALM BEACH GARDENS, Fla. – After playing his first eight holes of the day in 7 over, defending champion Rory McIlroy suddenly withdrew from the Honda Classic, citing pain from a wisdom tooth. Below is the full statement the Ulsterman released in the wake of his early departure:
‘I sincerely apologize to the Honda Classic and PGA Tour for my sudden withdrawal. I have been suffering with a sore wisdom tooth, which is due to come out in the near future. It began bothering me again last night, so I relieved it with Advil. It was very painful again this morning, and I was simply unable to concentrate. It was really bothering me and had begun to affect my playing partners.
‘I came here with every intention of defending my Honda Classic title. Even though my results haven’t revealed it, I really felt like I was rounding a corner. This is one of my favorite tournaments of the year and I regret having to make the decision to withdraw, but it was one I had to make.’
After releasing the statement, McIlroy also took to Twitter to express his regrets over the situation:
Apologies to all at the Honda. A tough day made impossible by severe tooth pain. Was desperate to defend title but couldn't play on. Gutted
— Rory McIlroy (@McIlroyRory) March 1, 2013