Tiger Woods, a name synonymous with golfing greatness, has endured a career punctuated by a series of injuries that have tested his resilience. From reconstructive surgeries to emergency procedures, Woods' journey through the world of sports has been as much about overcoming physical challenges as it has been about triumphs on the golf course. On December 23, 2021, Woods underwent his fifth back procedure, marking another chapter in his ongoing battle with health issues. This latest surgery, a microdiscectomy, aimed to alleviate nerve pain in his lower back.
In 2008, Woods faced a significant setback when he required reconstructive surgery on a damaged ACL. This injury forced him to miss the remainder of the season. His determination, however, was never in question. Despite the severity of the injury, Woods chose to continue competing until surgery became unavoidable.
The year 2021 marked another turning point in Woods' career when he suffered "significant orthopedic injuries to his right lower extremity" following a car crash. He underwent emergency surgery for "open fractures affecting both the upper and lower portion of the tibia and fibula bones." This incident underscored the physical toll that Woods' body has endured over years of competition.
Woods' left knee has been a recurring concern throughout his career. On August 20, 2019, he underwent an arthroscopic procedure for the fifth time on that knee. The procedure aimed to address lingering issues that had plagued him for years. Previously, after the 2007 British Open, Woods ruptured the anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee while at home running. Despite this setback, he opted against surgery and continued to compete.
Back issues have been a persistent challenge for Woods. In 2014, he withdrew from both the Dubai Desert Classic and the Honda Classic due to back spasms and issues. His struggles continued in 2012 when he withdrew from the WGC-Cadillac Championship citing an injury to his left Achilles tendon.
"The knee acted up, and then the Achilles followed after that, and then the calf started cramping up. Everything started getting tight." – Tiger Woods
In September 2015, Woods underwent a second microdiscectomy surgery, followed by a procedure to relieve discomfort a month later. These surgeries were necessary to address ongoing pain that had been affecting his performance.
In April 2014, Woods had a microdiscectomy for a pinched nerve that had troubled him for several months. This procedure was another attempt to alleviate the persistent back pain that had been affecting his game.
"The surgery went well, and I'm optimistic this will relieve my back spasms and pain." – Tiger Woods
In the aftermath of his February 2021 car wreck, Woods faced yet another surgical intervention. On April 19, 2023, he underwent surgery to address post-traumatic arthritis in his right ankle caused by the injuries sustained in the crash.
In an unexpected turn of events in March 2025, Woods announced he had ruptured his left Achilles tendon while ramping up training and practice at home.
"I am disappointed to have to WD this morning due to reaggravating my plantar fasciitis." – Tiger Woods
Dr. Charlton Stucken performed surgery on March 11, 2025, at the Hospital for Special Surgery in West Palm Beach, Florida.
"The surgery went smoothly, and we expect a full recovery." – Dr. Charlton Stucken
Woods' journey through injury has been marked by both setbacks and comebacks. Each procedure and recovery period has highlighted his commitment to returning to the sport he loves. While injuries have been a constant hurdle, they have not deterred him from pursuing excellence on the golf course.
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