Tiger Woods out of US Open - but who cares?

Ryan Giggs may have stolen his crown as sport's most infamous love rat, but it seems life for Tiger Woods isn't getting any easier. Golf's beleaguered former world number one has announced he will not compete at next week's US Open because of injury.

"I am extremely disappointed that I won't be playing in the US Open," Woods said on his website, "but it's time for me to listen to my doctors and focus on the future. I was hopeful that I could play, but if I did, I risk further damage to my left leg."

Woods sprained a ligament in his left knee playing an awkward lie at the Masters last April. He attempted to compete last month at the Players Championship but was forced to withdraw after nine holes, having shot a six-over 42.

Despite wearing a protective boot to speed his recovery, the 35-year-old will not be fit in time for next week's major. "It's been a frustrating and difficult year," the player said, "but I'm committed to my long-term health."

Woods has played in every US Open since 1994, winning the tournament in 2000, 2002 and 2008. The last of those victories – an epic performance completed by beating Rocco Mediate in a playoff – came despite the fact that Woods was carrying a fractured left tibia and torn knee ligament. He spent the next eight months recovering.

Back then, news of Tiger Woods' withdrawal from a US Open Major would have triggered relief and celebration from his rivals and consternation among sponsors, such was the aura and influence of the world number one. Today, however, the news will have raised few eyebrows in the clubhouse.

Since his public sex scandal in 2009, Woods has appeared a shadow of his former self on the golf course. He has dropped to 15th in the world rankings and is without a tournament win in over 18 months. Dumped by sponsors and his wife, pundits have been quick to note that Woods withdrawal has barely caused a ripple among the US Open's financial backers.

Meanwhile Ryan Giggs, whose marital indiscretions have triggered a UK media frenzy similar to that which Woods faced back in 2009, will be hoping that his fall from grace is not as dramatic as the golfer's.

The Daily Mail yesterday called Manchester United's winger "the new Tiger Woods", reporting that sponsors such as Reebok are already getting cold feet about continuing their endorsements with the Welshman. Doubtless the ageing winger will also be hoping that he doesn't experience a loss of form and fitness as drastic as that of Tiger Woods in his twilight years. ·