Xander Schauffele and Patrick Cantlay have pulled out of the upcoming Hero World Challenge hosted by Tiger Woods. Their spots in the unofficial PGA Tour event will be filled by Andrew Novak and Alex Noren.
Hero World Challenge: Novak and Noren Join the Field
Scheduled for December 4, the Hero World Challenge will now feature Andrew Novak making his tournament debut and Sweden’s Alex Noren returning for the first time since 2018. With their inclusion, the 20-player field is now complete.
Schauffele and Cantlay Miss Event for Second Time
This marks the second time both Schauffele and Cantlay have skipped the event, the last being in 2023. Schauffele previously cited a need for rest after the pandemic. No official reason has been given for this year’s withdrawal, though Schauffele became a father in September, which may have influenced his decision. Since the Ryder Cup, Schauffele has only played the Baycurrent Classic, where he claimed his first win since the 2024 Open. Cantlay has not competed since the Ryder Cup.
Star-Studded Field Led by Scheffler, But No Tiger Woods
Despite the absence of Schauffele and Cantlay, the event still boasts a strong lineup, headlined by World No. 1 and defending champion Scottie Scheffler. European fans can look forward to appearances by Justin Rose, Robert MacIntyre, and Austria’s Sepp Straka. Notably missing is tournament host Tiger Woods. Hopes for his return after an Achilles injury were dashed when it was revealed he underwent a third back surgery in 13 months.