LOS ANGELES (AFP) - Tiger Woods, struggling to return to top form after undergoing back surgery, will not play in the 2014 US Open next month, he announced on his website on Wednesday.

The 14-time major winner has not competed since the final round of the WGC-Cadillac Championship in March and this is the sixth major championship the American has missed because of injuries.

"Unfortunately, I won't be there because I'm not yet physically able to play competitive golf," Woods said.

"I'd like to convey my regrets to the USGA leadership, the volunteers and the fans that I won't be at Pinehurst.

"The US Open is very important to me, and I know it's going to be a great week. Despite missing the first two majors, and several other important tournaments, I remain very optimistic about this year and my future."

Woods shot a third round 66 at the WGC-Cadillac Championship to vault back into contention but struggled with back pain in the final round on March 9.

He also missed four months of the 2011 season with knee and Achilles injuries.