John Daly withdraws from Safeway Open

John Daly, who received a sponsor exemption into this week’s PGA Tour event in Napa, has withdrawn from the tournament because of a back injury.

Daly told tournament officials he will need surgery on his back.

This continues an injury-plagued year for the two-time major champion. Daly, 52, also withdrew from the U.S. Senior Open and British Open, citing a knee injury in those instances. He applied to use a golf cart in both tournaments, but his requests were denied.

Safeway Open officials gave sponsor exemptions to Daly and fellow PGA Tour Champions player Fred Couples, hoping their popularity with fans would resonate.