Abu Dhabi: Corrective eye surgery has forced colourful Englishman, Ian Poulter - the current world No 26 - to withdraw from next week's Abu Dhabi Golf Championship.
The Ryder Cup star is to undergo the surgery next week, ruling him out of a third tilt at the Falcon trophy.
Poulter will miss out on the opportunity to go head-to-head against the world's best players at the Abu Dhabi Golf Club.
This year the field includes three-time Major winner, Padraig Harrington, World No 2, Sergio Garcia, No 8, Henrik Stenson, and eight-time European Tour Order of Merit winner, Colin Montgomerie.
"It is with great regret that I have to withdraw from the Abu Dhabi Golf Championship," said Poulter.
"I have been having a problem with my vision in poor light and my doctors have advised me that I should have this surgery as soon as possible to prevent further deterioration.
"I am relieved that the problem can be corrected with surgery but very disappointed to miss one of my favourite events on the schedule.
"However, I'll be back in Abu Dhabi next year for another crack at the Falcon," added the 32-year-old.
A spokesperson for Championship organiser, Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority, said: "It's great to hear he's planning a 2010 appearance and we look forward to welcoming him back."
