McDowell and Palmer express Tiger fears

Graeme McDowell has joined legendary tournament host Arnold Palmer in declaring continuing injuries could eventually deny Tiger Woods a chance of breaking Jack Nicklaus’ record of 19 Majors.

McDowell was all set to tee-up alongside Woods for the opening two rounds of this week’s €4.4m Arnold Palmer Invitational at Bay Hill in suburban Orlando.

However Woods, an eight-time winner on ‘Arnie’s course’, telephoned Palmer late on Tuesday and explained a continuing back injury was forcing him out in the defence of his title.