DOHA (Reuters) - Defending champion Retief Goosen of South Africa pulled out of the Qatar Masters yesterday having failed to completely recover from eye surgery.

Goosen, who underwent corrective laser surgery 10 days ago, came to Qatar intending to defend his title but experienced blurred vision during Tuesday's practice at the $2.5 million event.

He flew to Dubai for further treatment and was hoping to compete but was still experiencing problems with his vision early on Wednesday.

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

"I thought it would come good, but it hasn't."

Goosen will be replaced by Sweden's Henrik Nystrom in the draw.

American Ryder Cup player Scott Verplank was forced to withdraw from Wednesday's Pro-Am after suffering from a stomach problem.