Tiger Woods hints at Masters comeback after latest back surgery

18 Feb 2026 • 5:37 PM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

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  • Golf icon Tiger Woods has hinted at a potential return to the Masters this year, despite a prolonged absence due to injury.
  • Woods, who turned 50 in December, has not competed since the 2024 Open at Royal Troon and underwent disc replacement surgery to address his back pain in October.
  • Speaking at the Genesis Invitational, where he is the tournament host, Woods expressed his determination to play again, acknowledging the challenges of recovery and age.
  • He stated he is “trying to get this body at a level where I can play at the highest level again” and can hit full shots, though not well every day.
  • When asked if the Masters, set for early April, was “off the table”, Woods replied “no”, leaving open the possibility of a comeback at Augusta National, where he has won five times.

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