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By the People, for the People
Tiger Woods Doesn't Rule Out 2026 Masters Return Despite 'Challenging' Injuries
The five-time Masters champion is recovering from his seventh back surgery and a ruptured Achilles.
Feb. 22, 2026 at 4:55pm
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Tiger Woods, the 82-time PGA Tour champion, is not ruling out a return to the Masters in 2026 as he continues to recover from a recent back surgery and a ruptured Achilles. Woods, who turned 50 in December, said he is "trying" to make a comeback, but acknowledged that his "body has been through a lot" and that the disc replacement and Achilles injury have been "challenging." The legendary golfer has been medically cleared to hit short and mid irons, but has not played in competition since the 2024 Open Championship.
Why it matters
Tiger Woods' potential return to the Masters would be a major event in the golf world, as he is one of the most iconic and successful players in the history of the sport. His comeback would draw significant attention and interest, and could inspire other athletes who have faced serious injuries.
The details
Woods suffered life-threatening leg injuries in a car accident at the Genesis Invitational in 2021, and has since undergone his seventh back surgery and ruptured his Achilles. Despite these setbacks, the 50-year-old golfer has been medically cleared to hit short and mid irons, and is working to regain the strength and endurance needed to compete at the highest level again.
- Tiger Woods turned 50 in December 2025, making him eligible for the PGA Champions Tour.
- Woods last played in competition at the 2024 Open Championship in July of that year.
- The 2026 Masters is scheduled to take place in early April, just over seven weeks from now.
The players
Tiger Woods
An 82-time PGA Tour champion and five-time Masters winner who is recovering from a recent back surgery and a ruptured Achilles.
What they’re saying
“I'm trying [to come back], put it that way. The disc replacement has been one thing. It's been a challenge to — I've had a fused back and now a disc replacement, so it's challenging.”
— Tiger Woods
“The Achilles was not an issue. I can't dunk a basketball anymore, so I don't have to worry about that.”
— Tiger Woods
What’s next
The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.
The takeaway
Tiger Woods' potential return to the Masters at the age of 50, despite his recent health challenges, would be a remarkable comeback story and a testament to his determination and resilience as one of the greatest golfers of all time.
