Greg Norman has undergone surgery on his troubled left shoulder and could be out until the summer.
The former world number one said he doesn't expect to return to the course in his golf clothing until late July.
Having undergone a procedure at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, US, the Australian admitted his disappointment at the forthcoming layoff but expressed some hope for the future.
"It's unfortunate that I have to undergo a second surgery to my left shoulder, but for more than six months now, I've known that such a procedure would be required," said Norman, 56.
"I'm hopeful that with aggressive rehabilitation I will be able to play towards the end of July, but obviously we will know a lot more in the coming weeks."
Two-time Open winner Norman previous underwent surgery on his left shoulder back in 1998, while he also had an operation on his right shoulder 18 months ago.