Golf: Els out of Buick Open because of injury

Ernie Els has been forced to withdraw from the Buick Open because of a back injury.

The South African, winner of the event in 1996 and 1997, said he hurt himself while working out on Tuesday.

He missed Wednesday's pro-am.

"I really tried pushing the envelope the last two days trying to get ready, but it is in my best interest to give it a rest and allow the problem to heal in order to avoid further injury," Els said in a statement.

Els said he would try to return in time to defend his championship at the European Tour's Scottish Open in the week of July 12.

His place in the Buick Classic at Harrison, New York was filled by Phil Tataurangi.