Tiger says his 2009 schedule uncertain

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates -- Tiger Woods said he is not sure whether he will be ready to defend his title at the Dubai Desert Classic early next year.

The world's top-ranked golfer missed the rest of the 2008 season shortly after winning the U.S. Open in June so he could have reconstructive surgery on his left knee to repair a torn ligament.

"It's frustrating for me," he said Monday of the injury at an event to promote a golf course he helped design in the Persian Gulf city.

Woods said his schedule heading into next year is uncertain, but that he plans to "be hitting golf balls at the beginning of the year."

The Dubai Desert Classic begins Jan. 27.