The Update on Rory McIlroy's Back Isn't Exactly Good News

We have a new update on Rory McIlroy and his nagging back, and it’s not exactly good news for the defending PLAYERS champion.

Over the weekend, the World No. 2 withdrew from the Arnold Palmer Invitational after tweaking his back in the gym prior to his third-round tee time. While hitting balls on the range, McIlroy decided to head home, hoping to eliminate the possibility of doing further harm.

On Monday, Golf Channel’s Todd Lewis received a text from the Northern Irishman with an update.

McIlroy said his back has been "more stubborn" than he initially thought and that he hopes to head to Ponte Vedra on Wednesday. He’ll remain in South Florida to receive treatment for the next few days.

Coming off a runner-up finish at the Genesis Invitational, McIlroy shot a 4-under 68 around Bay Hill in difficult second-round conditions to put himself in position for a weekend charge before the WD.

If he’s able to go, he likely won’t get a practice round in before THE PLAYERS kicks off Thursday morning. He’s currently slated to play the opening two rounds alongside Xander Schauffele and Hideki Matsuyama.