Thirteen-time PGA Tour winner Jason Day has officially withdrawn from THE PLAYERS Championship on the PGA Tour, citing illness as the reason for his absence. The announcement came just prior to the start of the event on March 13, 2025, at the prestigious TPC Sawgrass. This unexpected withdrawal is especially disappointing for Day, who had been showing signs of solid form leading up to the tournament, where he was scheduled to tee off at 8:46 a.m. ET alongside fellow competitors Jordan Spieth and Wyndham Clark.
Replacing Day will be PGA Tour rookie Danny Walker, who is making his PLAYERS debut after earning his Tour card via the 2024 Korn Ferry Tour Points List. The young golfer's participation indicates his rising potential, but it also marks a significant opportunity lost for Day, who won this year's event back in 2016.
Day was coming off noteworthy performances, including a tie for eighth at the Arnold Palmer Invitational just last week. Prior to this, he also secured a tie for third place at The American Express earlier this season. Despite these impressive finishes, it’s important to note Day remains winless on the PGA Tour since May 2023, which adds more urgency to his preparations for upcoming tournaments.
Currently ranked 33rd globally, Day's history at THE PLAYERS Championship includes memorable moments and emotional highs, but this year’s absence leaves his fans and supporters anxious. They reminisce about his incredible talent, hoping to see him regain his top form returning to the greens.
Looking forward, Day's focus will now shift to recovering from his illness and preparing for The Masters, set to take place from April 10-13, 2025. This major event holds special significance for Day; he has come close to winning the coveted Green Jacket on several occasions at Augusta National Golf Club.
Last year at The Masters, Day experienced some challenges when he was asked to remove a knitted sweater vest deemed “too busy” by Augusta National officials. Subsequently, he signed with Malbon Golf, showcasing his unique style. Day is currently awaiting feedback from the Augusta officials to confirm if the apparel he has planned for The Masters will be approved, saying, "So we have to get clearance on the scripting this year," referring to his apparel arrangements for the tournament.
This latest setback, compounded by past disappointments, adds to the narrative surrounding Day’s career—a narrative filled with potential yet marked by frustration. The Australian golfer, who also has begun working again with his former coach Colin Swatton, is intent on turning his situation around. His supporters remain hopeful, eager to see the return of his fighting spirit on the course as he tackles the challenges presented by upcoming tournaments.
For now, fans can track live scores from THE PLAYERS Championship and look forward to updates on Day’s recovery. The anticipation builds as the golf community awaits news of when he will be able to return to the greens, bringing insights, performance, and the competitive edge back to the field.