• The Masters

Masters still special without Woods - Kuchar

ESPN staff
April 2, 2014
Matt Kuchar admits that some players 'dream' of beating Tiger at events like The Masters © Getty Images
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Matt Kuchar believes The Masters is no less special in the absence of Tiger Woods, even if it denies those playing a chance to face the 14-time major champion.

Woods confirmed his withdrawal from The Masters on Tuesday following surgery for a pinched nerve in his back. It is the first time Woods will miss the event in 20 years.

Kuchar, who finished in a tie for third at the Masters in 2012, said the players may feel like they are missing out on a shot at Woods at Augusta National, but the year's first major wouldn't suffer in his absence.

"It's The Masters," Kuchar said. "It's still the greatest golf tournament.

"We experienced a year without him. He is the centre of the PGA Tour sphere. He attracts the most eyeballs, the most attention, but there are a lot of great players out here and I think the Tour held on quite well, stayed pretty healthy, while he was absent.

"Certainly, the Masters will not suffer. I think everyone wants Tiger to be healthy and playing well and in contention.

"I think most guys dream of taking Tiger down. We won't have that chance this year but we'll still have a chance to don a green jacket."

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