THOUSAND OAKS, Calif. — Rory Sabbatini didn't let the year end without getting under Tiger Woods' skin one last time.

In a move that left players shaking their heads, Sabbatini withdrew from the final round of the Target World Challenge yesterday because of "personal reasons," making him the first player in the nine-year history of the event to leave early.

Sabbatini still received $170,000. He was in last place heading into the final round, 28 shots behind.

A locker room attendant, who spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to release information, said Sabbatini cleaned out his locker Saturday afternoon and gave away sweaters and shoes. He told them he was headed to Maui, where he spends his Christmas vacation.

His agent, Bud Martin, said Sabbatini told him he withdrew because of shin splints.

"He had shin splints that were bothering him yesterday," Martin said after talking to Sabbatini yesterday morning. "He went home overnight and worked on them with his trainer, and they weren't getting any better. He said he wasn't going to risk it."

Woods, the tournament host, shook his head when asked about Sabbatini on his way to the practice range. After winning by seven shots, he said he was trying to sort through conflicting reports.

Later, he was asked if he minded that Sabbatini left, and a cold stare spoke volumes.

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