Steve Stricker has already won this year’s Charles Schwab Cup, the season-long points race on the PGA Tour Champions.
However, Stricker announced Wednesday afternoon that he would not compete in this week’s season finale, the Charles Schwab Cup Championship, due to a family emergency, and was withdrawn from the 36-man tournament at Phoenix Country Club. was forced to be absent. Stricker’s father, Bob, was hospitalized on Monday.
“I was really looking forward to competing in this event and wrapping up the season. It was a very special season for me, but a personal emergency occurred and I was forced to stay home,” Stricker said. said. “My father was admitted to hospital on Monday afternoon. He is currently undergoing treatment and it is important that I be here for his family during this difficult time.”
Stricker won six championships this season, including three majors, and finished runner-up five times in 16 starts, but lost to only 41 players. He also recorded 55 consecutive rounds of par or better this season, breaking Tiger Woods’ record for all PGA Tour-sanctioned tours.
Although he did not play in last week’s TimberTech Championship, he has collected $3,986,063 this season, making him the first player in tour history to earn over $4 million if he plays in the uncut Schwab Cup final. It was supposed to be.
He will need to win his first Schwab Cup title because mathematically no other player can catch him in Phoenix.
“I understand that I am disappointed in my absence and would like to extend my sincere apologies to the PGA Tour Champions staff, volunteers, fellow players, fans and title sponsor Charles Schwab,” Stricker said in a statement. “While I am sad to be unable to compete in Phoenix this week, family must always come first. I hope you understand my decision to prioritize my father’s health during this difficult time.” We would like to express our gratitude to the PGA Tour Champions staff, tournament directors, and sponsors for their tireless efforts in providing us with the opportunity to participate in great races throughout the season. I really appreciate the encouragement.
“Finally, I would like to wish all the players the best of luck as they play in the final game of the season. I will be watching the event from afar and cheering on my friends and competitors. Thank you for your understanding and support during this time. I look forward to seeing you all again soon.”