‘I’m not ready’ – Tiger Woods pulls out of Genesis Invitational as he’s ‘still processing’ shock death of his mum

TIGER WOODS has pulled out of the Genesis Invitational event as he continues to grieve over the passing of his mother.

The golf legend's mum, Kultida, died at the age of 81, with Woods breaking the tragic news on social media last week.

The 49-year-old had been due to compete in the Genesis Invitational in Southern California, USA, later this week.

However, on Monday evening he announced he was "not ready" to return to action after the death of his "dear mother".

In a statement released on social media, he said: "I planned to tee it up this week, but I’m just not ready.

"I did my best to prepare, knowing it’s what my Mom would have wanted, but I’m still processing her loss.

"Thanks to everyone who has reached out.

"I hope to be at Torrey later in the week and appreciate the continued kindness since my Mom’s passing."

Woods' tribute to his late mother saw him name her his "biggest fan".

He said after her death: "It is with heartfelt sadness that I want to share that my dear mother, Kultida Woods, passed away early this morning. 

“My Mom was a force of nature all her own, her spirit was simply undeniable. She was quick with the needle and a laugh. 

“She was my biggest fan, greatest supporter, without her none of my personal achievements would have been possible. 

“She was loved by so many,  but especially by her two grandchildren, Sam and Charlie. 

“Thank you all for your support, prayers and privacy at this difficult time for me and my family.  Love you Mom.”

Woods' mother Kultida was originally from Thailand and met his late father Earl, a retired US Army officer, in 1968 when he was on a tour of duty in the country.

They ended up settling in Cypress, California. And Woods, who was their only child, was born there in December 1975.

He has won 15 Major golf titles, including the Masters five times, putting him three behind Jack Nicklaus' tally of 18.

Kultida was a regular at Woods’ matches and was most recently at his TGL clash in Florida on January 14.

Woods paid tribute to her in June last year when he received the Bob Jones award for his contribution to golf.

Woods said at the time: “My mom doesn’t get enough credit.

“Everyone thought that it was my dad when I went on the road, which it was.

“But mom was at home. If you don’t know, mom has been there my entire life.

“This award, I accept it in humbleness and just unbelievable regard for the past recipients but I also accept it for my mom too.

“She allowed me to get here. She allowed me to do these things, chase my dreams, and the support and love — I didn’t do this alone.

“I had the greatest rock that any child could possibly have: my mom. Thank you, mom.”