JUSTIN ROOSE has pulled out of The 150th Open due to a back injury suffered on Wednesday.
The knock occurred during the 41-year-old's last practice session, just before the Major tournament at St Andrews.
Justin Rose, a British golfer, has pulled out of The Open because of a back injury
The pain caused by the injury was so severe that Henrik Stenson, a former US Open winner, had to stop practicing with Ryder Cup captain Henrik Stenson.
Rose tried to shake off the pain on the range, but it was too late.
He was forced to leave the competition in the first round at 6.35am.
He was supposed to be at his first tee by 8.14am but he didn't show up. This led to speculation that he might not be physically fit enough.
The 2016 Olympic gold medallist in the Olympics will not compete at The Open for the first time since 2006.
Rose's withdrawal was confirmed by the PGA Tour via social media. They stated that Rikuya will replace him.
They tweeted: "Justin Rose (back injury), has withdrawn from The Open Championship. Rikuya will replace him.
"Aaron Rai now is the first alternative."
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Hoshino, a 26-year-old Japanese golfer, took part in the 2021 Open Championship, but did not make it to the final.
Hoshino will now be playing alongside Tommy Fleetwood, a British star, and Francesco Molinari, The Open's 2018 champion.
Alex Noren, a Swedish player, had been the first reserve ahead Hoshino. However, the 40-year old has decided to take part in the PGA Tour's Barracuda Championship.
If there are any late withdrawals, Aaron Rai from England will be the next in line.
The 27-year old finished 19th at The Open last season.