Nicklaus Withdraws from 23rd U.S. Senior Open

Jack Nicklaus withdrew from the 2002 U.S. Senior Open Championship at 11:30 a.m. Monday (June 24) because of reoccurring back problems.

"I am better but not good enough to play golf," said Nicklaus from Florida. "I have had great improvement but not good enough to play in a four-day tournament."

The alternate who will take his place is Anthony Saraceno of Cortland N.Y., who competed in sectional qualifying on June 11 in Bolton Landing, N.Y. Saraceno shot 70 at Sagamore Golf Club.