Multiple PGA Tour winner WDs from Mexico Open after six holes

Billy Horschel withdrew from the Mexico Open after completing only six holes.

The American was 4-over par when he decided he could no longer continue.

The PGA Tour's official communications department confirmed the 39-year-old was struggling with illness.

Horschel's early departure represents a big setback for the eight-time PGA Tour winner, who had arrived at Vidanta Vallarta looking to strengthen his position in the FedExCup Fall standings.

Currently, Horschel is at risk of losing his full PGA Tour card. He began the week 94th in the order of merit, with only the top 100 securing their full playing privileges for 2027.

He has endured a mixed 2026 campaign but had shown signs of improved form in recent weeks, finishing tied for 13th at the Bank of Utah Championship before recording a tie for 21st at the Baycurrent Classic in Japan.

He also finished tied for 12th at the Wyndham Championship in August.

Horschel is not the only big name struggling. Former world number one, Jason Day, is also near the bubble. 

There are just four tournaments remaining in the FedExCup Fall series after this week's event, with the World Wide Technology Championship, Austin Championship and RSM Classic still to come.

Horschel's injury struggles

Horschel's struggles with injury over the past two years have disrupted what had been one of the most consistent periods of his career, with a significant right hip problem forcing him to undergo surgery and miss six months of competitive golf in 2025.

His problems first became apparent in April 2025, when he withdrew from the Zurich Classic of New Orleans.

Horschel later announced he would undergo surgery on his right hip, describing the procedure as a preventative measure after consulting doctors and his team.

The operation proved more extensive than initially anticipated, with Horschel later revealing the extent of the damage included a significant labrum tear and two microfractures.

He subsequently missed the remainder of the 2025 major championship season, including the PGA Championship, US Open and Open Championship, as well as a potential opportunity to make his Ryder Cup debut.

Horschel had initially targeted a return in late summer or early autumn, but his rehabilitation took time. 

He eventually returned at the BMW PGA Championship at Wentworth in September 2025, before making further appearances towards the end of the year.

Speaking to the PGA Tour last December, Horschel said his hip was feeling progressively stronger with each competitive start, although he acknowledged that recovery would take time.