00:01The countdown to the Masters is underway, but a fitness concern surrounding champion Rory McIlroy has added uncertainty to the
00:08build-up for golf's first major of the year.
00:11McIlroy was forced to withdraw from the Arnold Palmer Invitational after suffering a back problem during his warm-up.
00:18The world number two had been well placed on four under par and inside the top ten before experiencing what
00:24he described as a small twinge in his lower back while training in the gym.
00:29As he attempted to loosen up on the range, the discomfort worsened into muscle spasms, prompting the decision to pull
00:36out before the third round.
00:39The withdrawal immediately sparked concern with the Masters now only weeks away.
00:45McIlroy is the defending champion at Augusta and is aiming to become just the fourth golfer to win back-to
00:51-back titles at the tournament, following Jack Nicklaus, Tiger Woods and Nick Faldo.
00:58The Northern Irishman sought to ease fears, explaining the withdrawal was precautionary rather than a result of a serious injury.
01:05It is only the second time in his career that he has pulled out of a PGA Tour event mid
01:11-competition, underlining how unusual the situation is.
01:15Before attention turns fully to Augusta, McIlroy is expected to focus on the Players' Championship.
01:21For now, the build-up to the Masters continues, but with one of the sport's biggest names facing an unexpected
01:26race to be ready.
01:30We'll see you next time.
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