Bernhard Langer Will Miss Masters After Tearing Achilles

Published 1:02 pm Friday, February 2, 2024

Two-time Masters champion Bernhard Langer, who was planning to make his last competitive appearance at Augusta National this spring, will be out of golf indefinitely after he announced Friday that he tore his Achilles tendon and needed surgery.

Langer, 66, who won the Masters in 1985 and 1993, said last month he planned to make his final appearance in this tournament this year. Last year he set the all-time record for victories on the PGA Tour Champions when he won for the 46th time, surpassing Hale Irwin.

Bernhard Langer, 66, had planned to play in his final Masters this year.

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“Yesterday, during training exercises in Boca Raton, I tore my Achilles tendon,’’ Langer said in a statement. “I will have surgery today to repair the injury, which will cause me to miss time playing competitive golf as I recover. Throughout my career, faith and family have been my bedrocks, providing me strength and guiding me through difficult times. I will lean on both as I work towards a return to competition.

“I appreciate everyone’s support during this time, and I look forward to seeing the fans and my fellow competitors back on the course soon.’’

Langer had done a conference call earlier this week in advance of the Chubb Classic, where he tied Irwin’s record last year and spoke about his final Masters.

“It’s going to be very emotional, especially Augusta, because it’s been a big part of my life,” Langer said. “I love the tournament. I love the golf course. I love what they do for the game of golf. It’s going to be a tough farewell for me walking up the 18th the last time in competitive circumstances.’’

It is unclear how long Langer will be out of action. He had planned to play the U.S. Open at Pinehurst No. 2 this summer because he had qualified via his U.S. Senior Open victory last summer.

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