Tiger Woods’ return to the course at the Genesis Invitational in 2024 was fleeting, lasting just 24 holes before illness forced him to withdraw. This setback came after a period of managing injury concerns, making it particularly frustrating for the 15-time Major winner.
Unable to attend the tournament’s conclusion, Woods missed the opportunity to hand over the trophy to Hideki Matsuyama, who clinched victory with an impressive final round. Despite battling illness, Woods had expressed optimism about his return to competitive play, acknowledging the challenge of shaking off rustiness.
Reflecting on his performance, Woods admitted to needing better preparation and consistency in his training routines. He highlighted the importance of regaining the sharpness required to make adjustments during rounds, acknowledging the gap in his competitive play.
Prior to this setback, Woods had been eyeing a cautious return to the tour, aiming for a schedule of around one tournament per month in 2024. His plans included targeting key events and gradually building his competitive rhythm.
With the Mexico Open and Cognizant Classic on the horizon, Woods’ illness may delay his return to competition. However, speculation remains about potential appearances, including a possible entry into The Players Championship in March, a tournament where he has enjoyed past success.
Regardless of his immediate plans, Woods’ exemption into The Players Championship and his inevitable participation in the Masters in April signify key moments on his calendar. Ultimately, Woods’ schedule remains fluid, with decisions likely to be guided by his ongoing health and competitive readiness.