Masters Stands Behind Tiger Woods and His Foundation

Augusta National chairman Fred Ridley expresses support for Woods' decision to focus on his health and well-being.

Apr. 8, 2026 at 4:56pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a fragmented, abstract scene of a golf tournament, with sharp, overlapping shapes in shades of green, white, and brown conveying the sport's dynamic energy and the nuanced ties between the Masters and Tiger Woods.The Masters' enduring support for Tiger Woods and his foundation reflects golf's complex, multifaceted relationship with one of its most iconic figures.Augusta Today

In his pre-Masters press conference, Augusta National chairman Fred Ridley reiterated the organization's support for Tiger Woods and his TGR Foundation. Ridley praised Woods' involvement in the recent renovation of the Augusta Municipal Golf Course, including the addition of a new 9-hole short course called The Loop. Despite Woods' recent personal issues, including a car accident and DUI arrest, Ridley stated that the Masters' commitment to Woods and his foundation has not wavered, and they wish him the best as he focuses on his health and well-being.

Why it matters

Tiger Woods is one of the most iconic and influential figures in golf history. His personal struggles have cast a shadow over the sport, and the Masters' public show of support for Woods and his foundation signals their belief in the positive impact he can still have, both on and off the course.

The details

In his press conference, Ridley credited and thanked Woods for his involvement in The Loop at The Patch, a 9-hole short course designed by Woods and TGR Design as part of the renovation of the Augusta Municipal Golf Course. Ridley then reiterated the statement released by the Masters four days after Woods' March 27 accident and arrest on DUI charges, adding that the Masters will continue to support Woods and his foundation.

  • On March 27, Woods was involved in a car accident and arrested on DUI charges in Jupiter Island.
  • Four days after the incident, the Masters released a statement supporting Woods.
  • The opening of The Loop at The Patch, a 9-hole short course designed by Woods, is targeted for April 15.

The players

Fred Ridley

The chairman of Augusta National Golf Club, the organization that hosts the Masters Tournament.

Tiger Woods

A 5-time Masters champion and one of the most successful and influential golfers of all time.

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What they’re saying

“We fully support Tiger's recent decision to focus on his health and well-being. We wish him the very best.”

— Fred Ridley, Augusta National Chairman

What’s next

The TGR Learning Lab of Augusta, a new STEAM education and workforce development facility supported by Tiger Woods' foundation, is scheduled to open in 2028.

The takeaway

Despite Tiger Woods' recent personal struggles, the Masters and Augusta National remain committed to supporting him and his foundation, recognizing the positive impact he can have on the sport and the local community.