Tiger out for the season

Tiger Woods is to have season-ending surgery on his troublesome knee, the world number one confirmed today.

Woods is to undergo reconstructive surgery on the anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee, and will then require further time off to rehabilitate a fracture of the left tibia in his leg.

"I know much was made of my knee throughout the last week, and it was important to me that I disclose my condition publicly at an appropriate time," Woods said in a statement.

"I wanted to be very respectful of the USGA and their incredibly hard work, and make sure the focus was on the US Open.

"Now, it is clear that the right thing to do is to listen to my doctors, follow through with this surgery, and focus my attention on rehabilitating my knee."

Woods made the decision to undergo a second surgery on his left knee just two days after he won his 14th major championship by defeating Rocco Mediate in a dramatic play-off at the US Open.

At times during the tournament, Woods was noticeably limping. However, he was still able to force the play-off in thrilling fashion in Sunday's final round with a birdie putt at the 18th hole, then made another birdie at the 18th in the play-off before ultimately winning on the 91st hole.

While his schedule will be put on hold, Woods will continue to make numerous appearances and fulfil his sponsor and charitable commitments over the next five to six months.