Tiger Woods Addresses Comeback Potential Ahead of Genesis Invitational

The 15-time major champion remains open to playing at the Masters despite ongoing injury struggles.

Published on Feb. 19, 2026

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Tiger Woods, the 15-time major champion, addressed the media at the Genesis Invitational, a tournament he hosts but is not playing in this week. When asked if he would rule out teeing it up at the Masters in April, Woods simply said "No," leaving the door open for a potential comeback despite ongoing injury issues, including a recent lumbar disc replacement surgery. Woods, now 50 years old, acknowledged the challenges of his body's recovery but expressed optimism about potentially playing on the Champions Tour, where golf carts are allowed.

Why it matters

Woods' potential return to competitive golf, especially at the iconic Masters tournament, would generate immense excitement and interest in the sport. As one of the most dominant and influential athletes of his generation, Woods' comeback would be a remarkable story, even as he battles the effects of multiple surgeries and the natural aging process.

The details

Woods revealed that he is still recovering from a lumbar disc replacement surgery he underwent last October, his seventh back procedure. He admitted that while he can now hit full shots, his body is still sore, and the recovery process takes longer at his age. However, Woods expressed openness to the idea of using a golf cart on the Champions Tour, a concession he has previously rejected for PGA Tour events.

  • Woods last competed at the 2024 Open Championship.
  • He underwent a lumbar disc replacement surgery in October 2025.

The players

Tiger Woods

A 15-time major champion and one of the most dominant and influential golfers of his generation.

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What they’re saying

“No," he said. Just one word. No wiggle room, no 'we'll see,' just a flat 'no.'”

— Tiger Woods (Yardbarker)

“I'm trying, put it that way. The disc replacement has been one thing. It's been a challenge... I've had a fused back and now a disc replacement, so it's challenging.”

— Tiger Woods (Yardbarker)

“I can't dunk a basketball anymore, so I don't have to worry about that.”

— Tiger Woods (Yardbarker)

What’s next

The Masters is less than two months away, and golf fans will be closely watching to see if Woods decides to tee it up at Augusta National, where he has won five times.

The takeaway

Despite his advancing age and extensive injury history, Tiger Woods remains determined to make a comeback, even if it means competing on the Champions Tour and using a golf cart. His potential return to the Masters would captivate the golf world and serve as a testament to his unparalleled competitive spirit and resilience.