Tiger Woods Eyes Masters Return; Ryder Cup Captaincy Unclear

Tiger Woods has provided an update on his possible return to golf, particularly for the upcoming Masters Tournament set to begin on April 9, 2024. Following a seventh back surgery to replace a disk, Woods is maintaining a hopeful outlook but has not committed to any future tournaments. During his recent appearance at The Genesis Invitational, he emphasized his busy schedule, which has predominantly centered around reshaping the PGA TOUR calendar.

Tiger Woods and the Masters Tournament

Woods, a five-time Masters champion, last competed in the event in 2024, where he made the cut for an impressive 24th consecutive time. When queried about his participation in the Masters this year, he responded affirmatively, stating, “No,” indicating that playing is still an option. However, he acknowledged ongoing recovery efforts from his October surgery and has not established a clear timetable for returning to competitive golf.

Current Health and Future Plans

• Woods turned 50 at the end of 2023, making him eligible for the PGA TOUR Champions.
• He experienced a ruptured Achilles tendon surgery in March 2025, which he has since recovered from.
• Woods mentioned his back remains an issue, indicating it may take longer for full recovery.

Last year marked a significant departure for Woods, as he did not participate in any tournaments, a first in his career. His commitment to improving his fitness is evident as he works towards regaining peak performance levels, stating, “My body has been through a lot.”

Ryder Cup Captaincy Uncertainty

Woods is also facing uncertainty regarding the U.S. Ryder Cup captaincy for the 2027 matches in Ireland. He previously declined the role due to time constraints, and as of now, he has not made a decision about participating again. The PGA of America has notably delayed its choice for captain, waiting on Woods’s input.

PGA TOUR Developments

In addition to addressing his own future in golf, Woods is an active member of the PGA TOUR board and is heading the Future Competition Committee. This group is working on a new model intended to adjust the tour schedule, making it more engaging for both players and fans. Discussions have included moving selected events, such as the Genesis Invitational, to more favorable dates and adding more meaningful competition opportunities.

• Proposed changes may align the season’s start with the Super Bowl.
• The committee is considering moving tournaments to larger markets during the playoffs.

Woods has conveyed the importance of fostering new talent in golf to ensure the sport remains vibrant. He stated, “We’re trying to create opportunities for that turnover… to get more youth out here because eventually they’re going to take over the game.” As he juggles these responsibilities, Woods continues to contemplate his next steps, both personally and professionally, within the world of golf.