Golfing icon Tiger Woods aspires to compete monthly on the PGA Tour, but acknowledged on Tuesday at the Hero World Challenge that this goal is still far off. Speaking to reporters in the Bahamas, Woods revealed he has "significant progress" to make before returning to the tour following another back surgery.
Woods underwent a microdecompression procedure, hoping it will strengthen his back enough for a monthly PGA Tour presence. He expressed considerable pain towards the end of this year's season, prompting the need for surgical intervention.
Woods admitted the severity of his back issues this year surprised him, stating the pain down his leg necessitated the procedure. He remains unsure when he'll be able to commit to monthly play.
Rehabilitation and building strength are Woods' current priorities. He'll contemplate returning to competition once he can swing a golf club at his usual high standard. Although not playing in the Hero World Challenge, Woods is present to support the Tiger Woods Foundation, which benefits from the event. He acknowledged he isn't currently "tournament sharp" enough to compete with the top 20 players in the world.
Despite injury struggles, Woods achieved a personal milestone this year by playing in all four majors for the first time since 2020. His results were mixed: 60th at the Masters, but missed cuts at the PGA Championship, U.S. Open, and The Open. His only other 2024 appearance was at the Genesis Invitational in February, which he withdrew from mid-second round.
Nearing his 49th birthday, Woods affirmed his competitive fire still burns. Golf enthusiasts eagerly await his return to the course, hoping his recovery progresses smoothly.
