Tiger Woods, the legendary golfer with 15 major championships under his belt, faces physical challenges ahead of The Masters later this month. Since his harrowing car crash in 2021, where he sustained severe leg injuries, Woods has grappled with numerous health issues while striving to stay competitive.
According to longtime friend Notah Begay III, Woods is grappling with significant constraints, including zero mobility in his left ankle and ongoing lower back problems. Begay remarked that Woods is strategizing to navigate these challenges as he prepares for the upcoming tournament.
Following the crash, Woods underwent ankle fusion surgery in 2023, a procedure that took a toll on his recovery process. Admitting to enduring a grueling six months of inactivity, Woods has since switched to FootJoy shoes for added ankle support.
While it remains uncertain whether Woods will compete in The Masters, Begay believes Woods will make every effort to do so if his health permits. Recent reports indicate Woods played a practice round at Augusta National alongside Justin Thomas and club chairman Fred Ridley.
The question looms: can Woods endure the physical demands of playing 72 holes over four days? Begay acknowledges this uncertainty, emphasizing the importance of Woods’ ability to recover between rounds.
Woods, known for his remarkable resilience, has made appearances at major championships a priority in recent years. His return to the PGA Tour earlier this year at the Genesis Invitational, an event he hosts, was short-lived due to back spasms and illness.
If Woods participates in The Masters, it would mark his 26th appearance at Augusta National, a venue where he has triumphed five times. Despite last year’s withdrawal due to injury, Woods boasts an impressive record of making the cut in 23 consecutive starts at the prestigious tournament, a feat he shares with Fred Couples and Gary Player.
While Woods’ physical condition remains a concern, his determination and storied history at The Masters leave fans eagerly awaiting his potential return to the iconic event.