Wie to Take Time off Due to Hand Injury


After pulling out of the Meijer LPGA Classic midway through the first round on Thursday, Michelle Wie has announced she will miss three to five weeks of tournaments due to a stress reaction in a bone of the index finger on her right hand.

According to the LPGA Tour's website, Wie was examined by renowned hand surgeon Dr. Tom Graham at the Cleveland Clinic, who made the diagnosis and will consult with Michelle on her return to golf this year.

Wie said in a statement: "I was looking forward to playing the next three weeks. It's honestly one of my favorite stretches on tour. It's extremely disappointing to miss these events, but I am relieved to have a proper diagnosis."

Dr. Graham added, "Michelle has developed an 'acute-on-chronic' injury influenced by the volume in which she practices and plays. Michelle is very aware of her body and was keen to pick up on this injury before it may have created a more severe problem."

Graham described that injuries of this severity typically requires about three to five weeks of limited practice and play before returning to competition. Dr. Graham also treated Wie several years ago when she broke her wrist.

"Seven years ago, I would have tried to play through this injury and it is important to me not to make that mistake again," Wie added. "I feel more comfortable now listening to my body and, while it's hard to miss this stretch of events, I know I will be better suited to continue a great year and finish strong."