That was the case at this week’s Hero World Challenge when the tournament host announced he wouldn’t be teeing up as expected because of an onset of plantar fasciitis.

According to a pre-tournament announcement, Woods has been suffering from the painful foot condition in the lead up to the tournament and has been advised not to play.

PGA Tour player Sepp Straka will take Woods’ place in the 20-man field to tee off at the Albany Golf Course on Thursday.

DEFENDING CHAMPION: The Ernie Els designed Albany Golf Club has proved a popular home for the event and has produced some compelling golf over the years.

Subject to strong winds because of its coastal location the course features wide fairways and large greens and is susceptible to low scoring when conditions are calm.

RIGHT: Viktor Hovland embraces his Aussie caddie Shay Knight in 2021. PHOTO: Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images.

Short grass around the greens also demands imagination with the short game with the bermuda grass adding an extra element of interest.

Of the six tournaments played at the course four have seen the winner finish on 18-under-par with Bubba Watson’s 25-under in 2015 comfortably the tournament record.

PRIZEMONEY: $3,500,000
 

PLAYERS TO WATCH: As one might expect with a limited but elite field there is a case to be made for almost every player teeing up this week.

Jon Rahm has twice been invited to play for one win and one runner-up which, given his victory in Dubai three weeks ago makes him an ominous presence.

Also lurking with intent is breakout player of 2022 Tony Finau who is one of the few in the field to have played the tournament three times or more.

His best finish was runner-up in 2018 but with the way he has played the second half of this year it would not be unfeasible for him to improve on that this week.

Seven of the 20 players in the field are making their debut this week with Tom Kim likely to attract the most attention.

The 20-year-old has quickly become a fan and media favourite since bursting onto the scene at the Open at St Andrews followed by his win at Greensboro.

Now a two-time Tour winner there is no reason to think he can’t get the job done this week and it would be a fitting end to a remarkable season.

72-HOLE RECORD: 263 (-25, Bubba Watson, 2015)

PAST AUSSIE WINNERS: No Australian has won this tournament.

AUSTRALIANS IN THE FIELD: No Australians are in the field.

TV TIMES*
Round 1: Friday (Fox Sports 506 5.30am – 8.30am)
Round 2: Saturday (Fox Sports 506 5.30am – 8.30am)
Round 3: Sunday (Fox Sports 506 5.30am – 8.30am)
Round 4: Monday (Fox Sports 506 5.30am – 8.30am)
*AEDT, check local guides