Collin Morikawa has provided a crucial update on the back injury that forced his withdrawal from The Players Championship. His comments offer a positive sign for his chances at the upcoming Masters.

The two-time major winner answered questions about his health following his alarming departure from the PGA Tour flagship tournament that took place at TPC Sawgrass at the beginning of this month.

Morikawa told Marty Smith that his back, post-scare, feels "really positive." This optimistic outlook comes after he was forced to withdraw from The Players Championship.

The concern was justified after Morikawa withdrew from The Players following his completion of a single hole during the first round. His abrupt exit from a $25 million event certainly sparked concern regarding his future playing status.

Nevertheless, the 29-year-old appears to have put the pain from Florida behind him.

This update is crucial for a player whose game depends on elite ball-striking. The healthy back will be the pillar that will enable Morikawa to get his rhythm prior to April.

Seeking Competitive Reps before Augusta

Morikawa's next tournament is the Valero Texas Open. He is going to test out his back under full tournament conditions one last time before the Masters.

By choosing to tee up in San Antonio, Morikawa is showing confidence in his back's ability to handle a full tournament workload.

His choice is consistent with the approach he has taken in earlier years, in which he has sought a small positive swing late in the spring.

Morikawa's performance in Texas will draw the golf community's attention. An injury-free and successful week will secure Morikawa's place as one of the top contenders for his first career Green Jacket.

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Written by

Abhishek Sharma

Edited by

Sagnik Bagchi