The South African golfer had corrective laser surgery 10 days ago and said his vision in one eye began to blur during practice yesterday. He traveled to Dubai for further treatment, but returned to Doha today and pulled out of the European Tour event.

"I am obviously very sad that I am unable to defend my title," Goosen said. "I came all this way to play but unfortunately the eye is causing a problem."

Goosen, a two-time major winner, has been replaced in the field by Sweden's Henrik Nystrom.