After a hiatus from the PGA Tour due to a foot injury that led to his withdrawal from the Masters last April, Tiger Woods is back, walking the fairways of Riviera Country Club with ease. The noticeable limp that accompanied him throughout the previous year is now a thing of the past, thanks to a successful ankle fusion surgery that sidelined him for the majority of the 2023 season.
Woods, who will be participating in the Genesis Invitational this week—a tournament he not only hosts but also where he made his first tour start in 1992—expressed relief and readiness, stating, “My ankle doesn’t hurt anymore.” This event marks his first official tournament since the injury, although he has been seen in a few less competitive outings, including the Hero World Challenge and the PNC Championship with his son, Charlie.
Aiming to play approximately once a month on the Tour in 2024, Woods has been focused on recovery and regaining his competitive form post-surgery. The 48-year-old golfer shared insights into his rehabilitation process and the challenges of adapting to the physical changes and the aging process.
Despite his legendary status with a record-tying 82 career wins, Woods’ recent years have been marred by injuries and recovery from a severe car accident, leaving his current performance levels somewhat uncertain. Additionally, Woods has never clinched a victory at Riviera, a fact he attributes to his putting challenges, and he currently ranks No. 893 in the Official World Golf Rankings.
Woods, set to play alongside Justin Thomas and Gary Woodland, is also undergoing significant changes off the course. He has introduced his “Sun Day Red” apparel line with TaylorMade, marking his first new endorsement since parting ways with Nike, and will be working with caddie Lance Bennett, following his split from Joe LaCava.
As Woods steps back into the competitive arena, his focus is not just on the game but on the joy and love for golf that has defined his career, emphasizing the unique opportunities the sport provides for interactions across different sports and the lifelong engagement it offers.