US EditionRory McIlroy Withdraws From Bay Hill with Back Spasm as Golf Enters a Big Stretch
- On Saturday, March 7, 2026, Rory McIlroy withdrew from the third round of the Arnold Palmer Invitational after back spasms halted him about 30 minutes before his tee time.
- While warming up in the gym this morning, McIlroy tweaked a muscle, which worsened on the range into persistent lower-back spasms, leading to his withdrawal.
- It was only the third time McIlroy has withdrawn and his first back issue since the 2023 Tour Championship, after a 4-under 68 on Friday and tied for ninth.
- He departed Bay Hill for his home in south Florida after stating, 'I felt a small twinge in my back,' and the spasms were not thought serious enough to keep him out of The Players next week.
- As he nears the major stretch culminating at Augusta, McIlroy prepares for the Masters on April 9-12, 2026, after winning last year to complete his career Grand Slam achievement.
82 Articles
82 Articles
Masters Champion Rory McIlroy Withdraws Mid-Tournament
Despite warming up Saturday morning, Rory McIlroy withdrew from the Arnold Palmer Invitational ahead of his third-round tee time at Bay Hill Club and Lodge.As the reigning 2025 Masters champion, the withdrawal has raised questions about the Northern Irishman’s health. Including concerns over whether the issue could impact his ability to defend his title at Augusta National next month.Rory Withdraws Mid-Tournament Citing Back SpasmsHeading into t…
Daily Journal
Berger's lead narrows at rain-hit Arnold Palmer
Daniel Berger's lead dwindled to two strokes on a tough, rain-interrupted third day at the Arnold Palmer Invitational Saturday, as world number one Scottie Scheffler struggled and Rory McIlroy withdrew with back pain.
Rory McIlroy Withdraws From Arnold Palmer Invitational After Back Injury
Professional golfer Rory McIlroy has withdrawn from the Arnold Palmer Invitational after he felt muscle spasms in his back. “While warming up in the gym this morning, I felt a small twinge in my back,” McIlroy said in a Saturday, March 7, statement. “As I started hitting balls on the range before the round, it worsened and developed into muscle spasms in my lower back.” He added, “Unfortunately, I’m not able to continue and have to withdraw. I w…
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