Rianne Malixi suffered a back injury, prompting her to retire from the Women’s Amateur Asia-Pacific Championship on Thursday at the Hoiana Shores Golf Club in Duy Hai, Vietnam.

The 17-year-old Malixi, the world No. 4, stood three-over par after five holes when she withdrew from the competition due to lower back spasm.

It was a major blow for the US Girls and US Women’s Amateur titlist as she is determined to claim the Asia Pacific crown, where invitations to play in major tournaments are at stake.

Malixi decided to withdraw early so that she would not aggravate her lower back injury and get enough time to recuperate in time for the LPGA Major Chevron in Texas and the Augusta National Amateur in Georgia.

“I am incredibly disappointed to have retired from the Women’s Amateur Asia-Pacific. It’s a championship I look forward to all year,” Malixi said in a statement.

“I have a back strain and I tried to compete but unfortunately couldn’t continue. I wish the girls the best of luck this week.”

With Malixi out, Junia Gabasa, Nicole Abelar, Grace Quintanilla, Reese Allyson Ng, Alethea Gaccion were left to carry the country’s flag for Filipinos.