Vijay Singh, the two-time PGA Championship winner, has announced that he will not participate in this year’s tournament, opting instead to compete in the Regions Tradition event alongside John Daly. This decision comes just days before the PGA Championship set to take place at the Quail Hollow Club.
Singh, who has previously claimed the PGA Championship title in 1998 and 2004, had also recently withdrawn from The Masters due to health concerns, marking his first absence from Augusta National since his debut in 1994. His recent social media posts expressed disappointment over missing the prestigious event, particularly on the 25th anniversary of his Masters victory. “Saddened to miss @themasters on the 25th anniversary of my win, and after 31 consecutive years of competing,” Singh shared on Instagram.
Despite the setbacks, Singh has shown resilience, competing in two events on the PGA Tour Champions since his withdrawal from The Masters, including finishing fifth in the Mitsubishi Electric Classic. He is expected to continue his pursuit on the Champions Tour instead of risking his performance in a more demanding major tournament.
John Daly, another celebrated golfer, is also set to participate in the Regions Tradition, citing a preference for that event despite the potential financial gains from the PGA Championship. He has also been recovering from hand surgery, which has impacted his performance but remains optimistic about his participation.
The Regions Tradition will feature a strong lineup and is expected to attract considerable attention as both Singh and Daly turn their focus to this tournament. The shift in Singh’s plans highlights not only the challenges faced by veteran players but also their enduring passion for the sport in a competitive landscape.
Singh’s determination to play at the Regions Tradition instead of the PGA Championship suggests a desire to embrace a more familiar and supportive environment at this stage of his career, fostering a positive outlook on his continued participation in golf events.