The numbers
Tiger Woods is attempting to play in The Masters 2026, marking his return to competitive golf after a hiatus of over a year. At 50 years old, Woods has faced numerous challenges, including multiple surgeries, which have hindered his ability to compete at the highest level.
Woods has undergone significant medical procedures in the last two years, including a disk replacement surgery in October 2025. His last competitive appearance was during the TGL finals in February 2025, where his team suffered a 9-2 defeat against the Los Angeles Golf Club. Reflecting on the match, Woods expressed frustration, stating, “We got our a** kicked at the end.” He added, “It doesn’t mean I’m not trying; I’ve been trying for a while.”
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 missed the cut. This prolonged absence from competitive play raises questions about his current form and fitness.
Woods has a storied history at The Masters, having won the prestigious tournament five times in 1997, 2001, 2002, 2005, and most recently in 2019. However, he missed the 2023 Masters due to plantar fasciitis, further complicating his return to the tournament. As a past champion, Woods is listed in the field for The Masters and has no deadline to commit, leaving fans hopeful for his participation.
Despite the physical challenges he faces, Woods remains passionate about the tournament. He stated, “I want to play, I’ve loved the tournament, I’ve loved being there since I was 19 years old.” His dedication to the sport is evident, even as he acknowledges the difficulties of recovery at his current age.
Observers are eager to see if Woods can overcome his injuries and make a successful return to Augusta National. However, details remain unconfirmed regarding his final decision to participate in the Masters. The exact date of his commitment is still unclear, leaving fans and analysts alike in anticipation.
As the tournament approaches, all eyes will be on Woods to see if he can defy the odds and return to the course where he has achieved so much success. His journey back to competitive golf is not just a personal challenge but a significant moment for the sport itself, as fans hope to witness a legendary comeback.
