The numbers
Tiger Woods is making headlines as he attempts to return to competitive golf at The Masters 2026, set to begin on April 9. At 50 years old, Woods has faced significant challenges, including multiple surgeries and a lengthy absence from the sport, making this comeback particularly noteworthy.
Woods’ last appearance in competitive golf was in February 2025 during the TGL finals, where his team suffered a disappointing 9-2 defeat against the Los Angeles Golf Club. This match marked his first competitive action in over a year, following a series of injuries that have plagued him, including a torn Achilles and back surgeries. “We got our a** kicked at the end,” Woods expressed, highlighting his frustration with the performance.
In the past five years, Woods has completed only four 72-hole tournaments, a stark contrast to his earlier career when he dominated the sport. His last participation in a PGA Tour event was at The Open in July 2024, where he unfortunately missed the cut. This extended absence raises questions about his current form and fitness as he prepares for The Masters.
Woods has undergone multiple surgeries in the last two years, including a disk replacement surgery in October 2025. These procedures have undoubtedly impacted his ability to compete at the highest level. “I’ve been trying, this body doesn’t recover like it did when I was 24, 25,” Woods admitted, reflecting on the physical toll that age and injuries have taken on him.
Despite these challenges, Woods remains a formidable presence in the sport, having won The Masters five times: in 1997, 2001, 2002, 2005, and most recently in 2019. His passion for the tournament is evident as he stated, “I want to play, I’ve loved the tournament, I’ve loved being there since I was 19 years old.” This deep connection to The Masters adds an emotional layer to his potential comeback.
Woods missed the 2023 Masters due to plantar fasciitis, further complicating his return to Augusta National. However, he is currently listed in the field for The Masters as a past champion, which means he has no deadline to commit to participating. This unique status provides him with the flexibility to make a decision closer to the event.
As the date of The Masters approaches, observers are keenly watching Woods’ progress and fitness levels. While he has expressed a desire to compete, details remain unconfirmed regarding whether he will ultimately play in the tournament. The exact date of his decision regarding participation in The Masters is unclear, leaving fans and analysts alike in anticipation.
Woods’ journey back to competitive golf is emblematic of the resilience and determination that have defined his career. Whether he can overcome the physical challenges and reclaim his spot among the elite at The Masters remains to be seen, but his legacy in the sport is already firmly established.