Need to know
Golf legend 15-time major champion Tiger Woods is on the comeback trail once again and eyeing his return to the PGA Tour in 2026 after recently undergoing his latest setback
05:00, 30 Dec 2025
Tiger Woods is eyeing his latest comeback from injury after undergoing a seventh back surgery(Image: David Cannon, Getty Images)
Everything you need to know
- Latest Surgery Setback: Tiger Woods recently underwent his seventh back surgery to replace a disc in his spine following years of physical setbacks. This latest operation adds to a long list of procedures on his legs and back that have kept him away from competitive play.
- Fitness Admission: Although he has been cleared to begin basic chipping and putting, the 15-time major winner has admitted he is still far from full fitness. He has emphasised he needs to rebuild his strength and rotational movement before deciding on a formal return schedule.
- All-Time Low Ranking: The golfer’s extended time away from competition has caused his official world ranking to plummet to a career-low of 2,048th. This is a dramatic fall for a player who once dominated the sport and held the top spot for a record 683 weeks.
- Retirement Fears: Woods' repeat injuries have inevitably led to speculation we may have seen the last of the golf great, at least at the pro level. The veteran has struggled to complete a full round of 72 holes in recent years, leading to concerns any comeback is a hope too far.
- Record Achievements: Despite his rankings drop, Woods - who turned 50 on Tuesday - remains tied with Sam Snead for the most career PGA Tour wins at 82 total victories. He continues to hold the ambition of securing just one more win to become the sole record holder in golf history.
- Caddie's Insight: Former caddie Steve Williams recently reflected on their successful 12-year partnership, highlighting Tiger’s consistent professionalism and manners. Williams noted Woods made a habit of thanking him after every single round, even when his performance on the course was disappointing.
- Infamous Temper: The caddie also revealed a rare moment of tension during a past Masters tournament, where the two had a major argument over club selection. After a poor shot led to a bogey, Williams gave Woods a stern "dressing down" that remains their only significant dispute.
- Comeback Forecast: While many observers are skeptical about his future, Williams believes Tiger still possesses the mental drive to win another major championship. He suggested that if Tiger's body can cooperate, he might follow Phil Mickelson's example of winning a major while in his fifties.
- Recent Activity and Future Plans: Currently, Woods is focused on hosting his annual Hero World Challenge while managing the difficult reality of his rehabilitation process. His greatest challenge remains the physical endurance required to walk a full 72-hole tournament without causing further injury to his body.
- READ THE FULL STORY: Tiger Woods issues health update and drops major golf return hint