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Norman to miss Australian Open

Veteran withdraws on medical advice

Last updated: 5th November 2009

Norman: shoulder surgery

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Greg Norman has withdrawn from next month's Australian Open after failing to recover from shoulder surgery as quickly as hoped.

The 54-year-old has also been forced to pull out of his own tournament, the Shark Shootout in Florida, because of his fitness problems.

The two-time Open champion was expected to be one of the leading draws for the Australian Open which takes place at the NSW Golf Club in Sydney from December 3-6.

Norman had signed a three-year appearance deal to play the tournament, but has now withdrawn after being advised by his doctors not to play competitive golf again this year.

"Naturally we're disappointed that Greg will not be able to join us," Golf Australia chief executive Stephen Pitt said in a statement on Thursday.

"We wish him well in his recovery and look forward to seeing him back in the Australian Open field in 2010.

"While the championship will undoubtedly miss the magnetism of Greg it will mean some of the spotlight will return to the outstanding Australian depth in the field."

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