Jack Nicklaus had surgery last week on his lower
back to relieve pain in his legs that has bothered him in recent
years. The surgery lasted only three hours, and Nicklaus was
walking later in the day.
He could return to playing golf within a month, although the
Golden Bear said that wasn't the reason for surgery.
"I had this procedure done for my quality of life, not for
golf," Nicklaus said. "I enjoy staying active, and this will
allow me to remain active, but hopefully with much less pain in the
upper legs."
Still, Nicklaus said he needed to be in good shape if decides to
play next year.
He has said he likely would play the British Open at St. Andrews
for the last time, and he could also play in the Masters and his
Memorial tournament.