Tiger Woods Hasn't Ruled Out Playing in 2026 Masters After Back Surgery

The golf legend is considering a return to the iconic tournament despite recent disc replacement surgery.

Published on Feb. 20, 2026

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Despite undergoing multiple back surgeries, including a recent disc replacement, 50-year-old golf legend Tiger Woods has not ruled out competing in the 2026 Masters Tournament. Woods, who has won the Masters five times, acknowledged the challenges of his ongoing physical limitations but remains determined to potentially extend his competitive career, even hinting at the possibility of transitioning to the PGA Champions Tour.

Why it matters

Woods's pursuit of a comeback at 50, after numerous major surgeries, challenges conventional notions of athletic aging and could influence how other athletes approach long-term physical challenges. His resilience and willingness to explore alternative pathways, like the Champions Tour, demonstrate the drive that has defined his storied career.

The details

Woods has endured seven back operations, including a spinal fusion in 2017, as well as a ruptured Achilles tendon. He recently underwent a disc replacement surgery, which he described as 'challenging' due to the combination of a fused back and the new disc. While acknowledging the physical limitations, Woods noted that using a golf cart is an option available on the Champions Tour, suggesting a pragmatic approach to extending his competitive career.

  • Tiger Woods turned 50 in December 2025.
  • Woods recently underwent disc replacement surgery.
  • The 2026 Masters Tournament is scheduled for April 2026.

The players

Tiger Woods

A legendary professional golfer who has won 15 major championships, including 5 Masters titles.

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What they’re saying

“Despite turning 50 in December and undergoing multiple back surgeries, including a recent disc replacement, Tiger Woods hasn't ruled out competing in the 2026 Masters Tournament.”

— Tiger Woods (newsy-today.com)

What’s next

Woods will continue his rehabilitation and recovery process, with the goal of potentially competing in the 2026 Masters Tournament in April.

The takeaway

Tiger Woods's determination to return to competitive golf, even at 50 and after numerous major surgeries, demonstrates the remarkable resilience and drive that have defined his storied career. His potential return to the Masters would be a testament to the limits of athletic recovery and could inspire other athletes facing long-term physical challenges.