Rory McIlroy makes promise to Tiger Woods as | Golf News

Rory McIlroy pledged to “acknowledge” Tiger Woods at the 2026 Masters Champions Dinner, which the 15-time major winner will miss after “stepping away” from golf.

Last Tuesday, Woods revealed he can be searching for treatment following a two-vehicle rollover crash in Jupiter, Florida. The 50-year-old was arrested and transported to a police station on March 27, where he confronted misdemeanor expenses.

Alongside Woods, Phil Mickelson will likely be absent from this 12 months’s Masters Tournament and Champions Dinner — representing the first event in more than three many years that neither competitor will take part in the major at Augusta National.

Speaking at Monday’s Drive, Chip and Putt event, McIlroy acknowledged that Woods and Mickelson’s absence can be felt at the Champions Dinner, which he is scheduled to host for the first time in his profession.

“I’ll just be incredibly grateful that I’m a part of it,” he said of the time-honored custom. “And I want to share that with everyone in the room. It is the most exclusive dinner club in all of sport. And I think we should all feel very fortunate that we are there.

“But we’re there because of the arduous work and the nice play that we have been in a position to produce. Unfortunately, there will be a couple of guys that will not be in that room, which is a disgrace.

“But I want to make sure that they’re acknowledged as well. And they’ve been two of the greatest champions that the Masters has ever seen.

“It’s going to be a actually cool evening. I am unable to wait. I hope everybody enjoys the dinner and enjoys every thing that I’ve chosen. Hopefully, we cannot keep too long, and I’ll be prepared to go. I could also be not as recent on Wednesday morning, but Thursday, I’ll be prepared to go.”

Posting on social media last Thursday, Mickelson confirmed his absence from the Masters, citing a “personal health matter.”

“Unfortunately, I can’t play in the Masters Tournament next week and will likely be out for an prolonged period of time as my household continues to navigate a personal health matter,” he wrote. “I’ve great respect for Augusta National Golf Club and it’s positively the most particular week of the 12 months. I want everybody the best of luck and will likely be watching.”

Woods, meanwhile, announced he would be stepping away for a period. In an official statement addressing his recent crash, Woods wrote: “I do know and perceive the seriousness of the state of affairs I discover myself in today.

“I am stepping away for a period of time to seek treatment and focus on my health. This is necessary in order for me to prioritize my well-being and work toward lasting recovery.

“I’m dedicated to taking the time needed to return in a more healthy, stronger, and more centered place, both personally and professionally. I recognize your understanding and help, and ask for privateness for my household, family members and myself at this time.”