Tiger Woods dethroned at the top of the world rankings as Adam Scott replaces him despite sitting out of the HP Byron Nelson Championship

Woods is currently recovering from back surgery but remains second in the rankings ahead of Henrik Stenson and Matt Kuchar

Adam Scott is hoping to build on his competitive 69 as he continues to defend his Masters title (Getty Images)

Adam Scott has replaced Tiger Woods at number one in the world golf rankings despite sitting out the HP Byron Nelson Championship.

The Australian was certain to claim top spot regardless of the result in Texas, with Woods still absent following back surgery.

Matt Kuchar could also have moved ahead of Woods but tied for seventh and had to settle for climbing to fourth spot in the rankings.

Latest leading positions in official world rankings:

1 Adam Scott 7.9936pts

2 Tiger Woods 7.8495

3 Henrik Stenson 7.7203

4 Matt Kuchar 7.1229

5 Bubba Watson 7.0429

6 Jason Day 6.6067

7 Sergio Garcia 6.2649

8 Justin Rose 6.1097

9 Jordan Spieth 6.0949

10 Rory McIlroy 5.7644

11 Phil Mickelson 5.7570

12 Jim Furyk 5.4783

13 Zach Johnson 5.3312

14 Dustin Johnson 4.9370

15 Graeme McDowell 4.2574

16 Steve Stricker 4.2573

17 Jimmy Walker 4.2071

8 Charl Schwartzel 4.1899

19 Luke Donald 4.0114

20 Ian Poulter 3.9586.