Tiger Woods has sparked speculation about a possible return to The Masters this year, despite ongoing recovery from significant injuries, according to a report by the U.K.'s Daily Mail. The golf icon, who recently turned 50, is navigating challenges from his seventh back surgery in October and a torn Achilles sustained last March.
Woods Addresses Comeback Timeline
During a media session at Riviera Country Club in Los Angeles on February 17, 2026, ahead of the Genesis Invitational, Woods provided insights into his future. When questioned if a Masters return was "off the table," he responded, "No." He elaborated, "I'm trying, put it that way. The disc replacement has been one thing. I've had a fused back and now a disc replacement, so it's challenging."
Woods acknowledged the impact of aging, noting, "And now I entered a new decade, so that number is starting to sink in and has us thinking about the opportunity to be able to play in a cart. That's something that, as I said, I won't do out here on this tour because I don't believe in it. But on the Champions Tour, that's certainly that opportunity."
Potential Ryder Cup Leadership Role
In addition to his playing prospects, Woods revealed he is considering taking on the role of U.S. captain for the Ryder Cup in Ireland in 2027. He stated, "Yeah, they have asked me for my input on it, and I haven't made my decision yet. I'm trying to figure out what we're trying to do with our tour. That's been driving me hours upon hours every day and trying to figure out if I can actually do our team, our Team USA, and our players and everyone that's going to be involved in the Ryder Cup, if I can do it justice with my time."
Masters Buzz and Rivalry with Rory McIlroy
The potential comeback of Woods is already generating excitement ahead of The Masters. Northern Ireland's Rory McIlroy enters as the defending champion, having secured his first green jacket last year, which made him the sixth player to win all four golf majors—a feat Woods has also achieved. This sets the stage for a compelling narrative if Woods returns to compete.
Reflecting on his recovery journey, Woods emphasized patience, saying, "My body has been through a lot. Each and every day I keep trying, I keep progressing, trying to get it to a level that I can play at the highest level." His last official tournament appearance was at the Open Championship in 2024, underscoring the significance of a potential return to major competitions.
