The specter of a career-ending injury haunts the world of sports, and the latest to be cast under its shadow is none other than golfing great, Tiger Woods. Woods has been battling Achilles injuries for much of his career, a battle that has been as relentless as his pursuit of excellence in golf.
His journey with injury began as early as 1994 when at the tender age of 18, he had to undergo surgery on his left knee to remove benign tumors and scar tissue. Fast forward to 2008, and Woods, then the World No. 1, was grappling with his first Achilles tendon injury in his right leg. The injury came on the heels of his return to golf following an ACL repair. His Achilles woes didn’t stop there, with 2012 marking a time when Woods had to deal with a particularly nasty left tendon injury.
Most recently, the golfing legend has gone under the knife for a ruptured Achilles tendon in his left foot. This recent development has sparked conversations among golf analysts, with many doubting if Woods is capable of making yet another triumphant return.
Former PGA Tour pro, Paul Gow, added fuel to the speculative fire during a recent interview on FOX Sports Australia. When quizzed about Woods’ ability to make a comeback, Gow remarked, “I think he’s primed for the TGL, isn’t he? He doesn’t have to walk anywhere.” He further added that despite Woods’ track record of defying odds, he sees no pressing need for the golfer to return at this stage. Gow’s rationale? “He has been the best of all time. And, uh, I don’t think he will play again.”
Woods, however, is no stranger to overcoming adversity. In 2012, an Achilles tendon injury saw his Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR) slip slightly, but two years later, he was back at the top despite battling back issues. His resilience was highlighted when, despite a neck strain and strained oblique, he claimed victory at the 2019 Masters. This win was reminiscent of his 2008 U.S. Open victory shortly after a knee surgery, further cementing his reputation as a master of comebacks.
His career accolades speak volumes. With 82 PGA trophies to his name, Woods has the highest number in history. He ranks second only to Jack Nicklaus when it comes to wins in majors, boasting an impressive 15 victories.
Despite his impressive career, Woods’ recent form has been hampered by his injuries. His last win dates back to 2019 at The ZOZO Championship. Since then, his performance has been marked by several missed cuts. Yet, his perseverance and determination in the face of adversity are nothing short of commendable.
As we move further into the 2025 season, Woods’ plans remain a topic of speculation. In an interview ahead of the 2024 Masters Tournament, Woods shed light on his physical struggles, stating that his training regime varies on a daily basis depending on how his body feels.
Woods’ connection to golf runs deep. He credits the sport for the opportunities it has provided him, including the chance to travel and meet people from around the world. This connection was evident when Woods extended his number of consecutive cuts at the Masters to 24 in 2024, surpassing the likes of Gary Player and Fred Couples.
Woods took a hiatus from the game following the passing of his mother but returned to TGL action earlier this month. He admitted that his heart is not in practicing at the moment, but he continues to stay involved in the sport, particularly through his son, Charlie Woods.
The golfing legend is also playing a crucial role in the ongoing PGA Tour and LIV Golf merger talks. In February, he announced a schedule change, sparking speculation that it had to do with the merger. Whether or not we’ll see him at the Masters remains uncertain. However, as 2025 marks his last exemption year, the ball is in Woods’ court. We can only hope for his full recovery and return to the sport he has so passionately served.