Tiger Woods Discusses Health Challenges, Ryder Cup, and PGA Tour Future
Tiger Woods recently addressed his ongoing health challenges during a press conference ahead of the Hero World Challenge in December. This annual event in the Bahamas features 20 players and supports Woods’ foundation.
Tiger Woods’ Health and Recovery
Woods has been absent from the PGA Tour since the 2024 Open Championship. Earlier this fall, he underwent another back surgery, which has raised uncertainty regarding his return to competitive golf.
“I need time to figure this out with my back and with my body,” Woods stated. He emphasized his commitment to assessing his condition before determining which tournaments he may enter in the future.
Focus on Rehabilitation
- Woods has begun physical therapy, including chipping and putting practice, and has started weightlifting again.
- His recovery includes a disc replacement, which he acknowledges will take time, albeit less than a fusion surgery.
Ryder Cup Insights
Woods mentioned he spent considerable time engaging with the U.S. team during the 2025 Ryder Cup held at Bethpage. When questioned about the possibility of captaining the team in the 2027 event at Adare Manor, he responded, “No one’s asked me about it.”
PGA Tour’s Future
During the press conference, Woods discussed the complexities surrounding the future of the PGA Tour. He explained the balance between creating scarcity while ensuring the Tour remains financially viable.
- Woods is part of the Future Competition Committee, working to refine the upcoming schedule.
- He emphasized the Tour’s aim to provide fans with the best product possible, which in turn supports players financially.
Woods conveyed the message that planning for the Tour’s future involves many factors that are continually evolving. “It all starts with the best tour on the planet, which is ours,” he affirmed.
Desire for Comeback
Reflecting on his future in golf, Woods expressed a simple wish: “I’d like to come back to just playing golf again.” He acknowledged that it has been a challenging year without tournament play.
