England's Paul Casey withdrew from the Volvo World Match Play Championship on Sunday because of a right shoulder injury, and Sweden Robert Karlsson took his spot in the 24-man field in the European Tour event that begins Thursday at Finca Cortesin.
Casey withdrew from The Players Championship in Florida on Thursday after shooting a 42 on the front nine in the first round. He dislocated the shoulder snowboarding over the holidays.
''Unfortunately, despite having had intensive treatment since last Thursday, I have been advised not to play,'' Casey said. ''I am absolutely gutted as it is one of my favorite events and I was really looking forward to a week of match play to kick-start my season. I am very sorry to miss out.''
Karlsson tied for 56th on Sunday in The Players Championship.
''I am absolutely thrilled to receive this invitation and will head over to Spain tonight to prepare,'' Karlsson said. ''I have only qualified once before, so this is a great opportunity for me, especially in a Ryder Cup year. I am really excited about the week ahead.''
