National Football League

After two back surgeries, Tony Romo gives up golfing

Published Jul. 1, 2014 1:53 p.m. ET

Shawn Ramsey

Once good enough to come close to qualifying for the U.S. Open, Tony Romo has reportedly chosen to give the game of golf after undergoing two back operations in the past year and a half.

Romo said he hasn't picked up a club since the first of his two operations in April 2013.

"It's been awhile," Romo told the Dallas Morning News. "Almost a year and a half."

Often criticized for his intense enthusiasm for golfing in the offseason, with some fans calling it a distraction for Romo, no one will have to worrying about the quarterback's mind being clouded with dreams of being on the greens when the Cowboys open camp later in the month.

"You've got to get yourself healthy, then figure out where you're at and go from there for everything," Romo said. "It's not just golf. It's a way you live life."

Romo maintains he is just giving up golf because he wants to have the best chance to see success for himself on the football field.

"I don't think about it as [giving up] golf. It's just life," Romo said. "You want to give yourself the best chance to succeed on the football field."

In April 2013, Romo had a cyst removed from his upper back and in December he underwent another procedure to repair a herniated lumbar disk. He has been limited in offseason workouts, but expects to take part in all aspects of the Cowboys' upcoming training camp.

Follow Shawn Ramsey on Twitter: @ShawnPRamsey

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