Tiger Woods has withdrawn from the US PGA Championship after shooting a nine-over 79 on Saturday, marking the first withdrawal of his professional career.

After four consecutive bogeys to open the back nine at Southern Hills on moving day, the 46-year-old birdied the par-four 15th to finish on 79, avoiding his third-ever score in the 80s at a major.

On Friday, Woods made the cut for the second time in as many tries after almost losing his leg in a devastating single-car crash in February last year.

It was a difficult third round across the board with heavy winds and overcast conditions, as he played through evident pain.

"I didn't do anything right," Woods said afterwards. "I didn't hit many good shots. Consequently, I ended up with a pretty high score."

Due to persistent soreness, the 15-time major winner eventually opted to withdraw.