Singh Withdraws from Phoenix Open


Citing a back injury, Vijay Singh has withdrawn from the Phoenix Open. The $6.2 million PGA Tour event starts today at TPC Scottsdale in Arizona.

The 49-year-old Fijian withdrew a day after saying he used deer-antler spray, a substance banned from all major sports organizations, including the PGA Tour.

Singh's use of the spray was outlined in a story in Sports Illustrated (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/nfl/news/20130129/the-strange-lab-that-lured-numerous-athletes/?sct=hp_t11_a2), written by David Epstein and to appear in the February 4th issue of the magazine.

On Wednesday, Singh released the following statement: "While I have used deer antler spray, at no time was I aware that it may contain a substance that is banned under the PGA Tour Anti-Doping Policy," he said.

"In fact, when I first received the product, I reviewed the list of ingredients and did not see any prohibited substances. I am absolutely shocked that deer antler spray may contain a banned substance and am angry that I have put myself in this position. I have been in contact with the PGA Tour and am cooperating fully with their review of this matter. I will not be commenting further at this time."

It's unknown at this time whether Singh, a former No. 1-ranked player who was inducted into the World Golf Hall of Fame in 2006, will face a suspension or penalty from the PGA Tour.

Ty Votaw, the Tour's vice president of communications and international affairs, said the organization became aware of the report Tuesday and was continuing its investigation.

Singh, who has racked up 34 career victories on the PGA Tour - including three major titles, was inducted into the World Golf Hall of Fame in 2006.