Preparations clearly are now underway for what could be Tiger Woods’ debut on the PGA Tour Champions. He is looking forward to celebrating his 50th birthday on Dec. 30th. Woods has had seven back procedures since April of 2014. Just recently, he had a disk in his lower back replaced to relieve harmful pain and movement restrictions. Even if the surgery leads to success, it will still be a footnote in Woods’ long struggle with injury that has defined his career.
Woods has fought an injury heavy career for going on a decade now. The most horrifying of those incidents came during a car accident in February 2021, which severely fractured his right leg and ankle. Not only did he suffer that injury, but earlier this year, he ruptured his left Achilles tendon. Despite these disappointments, conversations about Woods’ looming arrival on the senior circuit have increased in fervor.
Miller Brady, the president of the PGA Tour Champions had promised that the organization is prepared. They’re all set for Woods’ likely arrival on the league’s team-building stage. He stressed the significance of the preparations, while voicing hope for Woods’ healing and continued participation in golf.
“To be honest with you, given the last surgery, I just hope Tiger gets back on his feet and is able to play golf again.” – Miller Brady
The PGA Tour Champions, the senior tour, was created exclusively for golfers of 50 and up. Each event typically includes a dramatic 54-hole match play format. Players can drive carts around as they play. This will hopefully provide further support for Woods as he heals from his life-threatening injuries.
Woods will be making his first appearance in an event since his playoff loss at the PNC Championship last year. But behind the scenes, he’s been living a different kind of active lifestyle, one focused on preparing for life after golf. For more than a year, Woods has been eagerly playing host to these “whiteboarding sessions.” These sessions are all about figuring out his tactics as he nears this big milestone.
The overwhelming excitement at the possibility of Woods joining the PGA Tour Champions is a testament to what a transcendent career he’s had. It highlights the resilience he has demonstrated in overcoming so many challenges. Woods still has the choice of playing on the senior tour. The PGA Tour Champions will be more than happy to have him back whenever he does — if that day ever comes.
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