Rory McIlroy Withdraws from Arnold Palmer Invitational Due to Back Spasms

Orlando, Fla. – Rory McIlroy has withdrawn from the Arnold Palmer Invitational at Bay Hill before the start of Saturday’s third round due to muscle spasms in his lower back. The world No. 2 reported feeling a twinge in his back while warming up in the gym and the discomfort worsened as he began hitting balls on the range.

Injury Details and Statement

McIlroy described the issue as a “small twinge” that escalated into muscle spasms. He released a statement to the PGA Tour expressing his disappointment.

“While warming up in the gym this morning, I felt a small twinge in my back. As I started hitting balls on the range before the round, it worsened and developed into muscle spasms in my lower back,” McIlroy said. “Unfortunately, I’m not able to continue and have to withdraw. I was excited to compete this weekend. I wish the Arnold Palmer Invitational a great finish and look forward to being back next year.” Source

Previous Withdrawals

This marks only the third time in his professional career that McIlroy has withdrawn from a tournament mid-event. He previously withdrew from the 2009 Nedbank Challenge due to the flu and food poisoning, and from the 2013 Honda Classic after eight holes, initially citing wisdom tooth soreness and later acknowledging mental struggles. Source

Players Championship and Masters Outlook

Despite the withdrawal, McIlroy is not expected to be sidelined for long. He is still anticipated to defend his title at next week’s Players Championship at TPC Sawgrass. Source He is also preparing for a significant stretch of tournaments leading up to the Masters, where he will defend his championship title, having grow only the sixth player to achieve a career Grand Slam last year. Source

Current Leaders at Bay Hill

As of Saturday’s play, Daniel Berger leads the Arnold Palmer Invitational at 13 under par through 15 holes. Akshay Bhatia is two shots behind in second place through 16 holes. Play will resume Sunday morning to complete the third round. Source