Byron Nelson undergoes back surgery

Byron Nelson had successful back surgery Thursday and will remain hospitalized until next week to recuperate, a spokesman for his golf tournament said.

The surgery had been previously scheduled for Nelson, who turns 90 on Feb. 4.

Mike Prusinski, spokesman for the Byron Nelson Classic, said Nelson was resting comfortably. No other details were released.

Nelson, who retired from tournament golf in 1947, won the Masters and PGA Championship two times, and also the U.S. Open. He is best known for winning 11 straight tournaments in 1945, considered one of the most untouchable records in sports.

His tournament, scheduled for May 9-12, is one of the most lucrative on the PGA Tour and donates the most money to charity every year.

Nelson has returned to Augusta National every April, but said last year he no longer will join Sam Snead in hitting the honorary tee shot to start the Masters.

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