Woods hasn’t participated in competitive golf since the 2024 Open Championship, but reaches 50 next month, opening up a fresh tournament opportunity. Woods becomes eligible to participate in the PGA Tour Champions starting in 2026, though Begay anticipates he will attempt the Charles Schwab Challenge and the RBC Heritage next year.
During an appearance on the Straight Facts Homie podcast, Begay revealed, “I think the biggest problem, in the conversations that I’ve had with him, is the walking. That’s it.
“He hits it great, he’s in tremendous physical condition. His ball speeds are fast enough; they’re 175-180, which is adequate for the PGA Tour. It’s just can he walk 72 holes plus a pro-am? I don’t know, and that’s the big question. A major championship venue with flatter terrain. Hilton Head with flatter terrain, Colonial with flatter terrain might be targets. And those are venues that he’s never typically played at.
“He’s played Colonial once and never went back. And I don’t think he’s ever been to Hilton Head. Those are two things that you may see at some point.”
It’s uncertain whether Woods will try to compete in a major tournament next year, particularly since the PGA Tour icon was keen to participate at Augusta National before suffering his Achilles injury.
Woods qualifies for all majors through the remainder of his career, but can also participate in the Champions Tour after he reaches 50 on Dec. 30.
The Champions Tour permits the use of a golf cart, which will dramatically improve his odds. “We’re also dying to see him on the Champions Tour. He can take a cart, and the walking becomes alleviated at that point,” Begay added.
“I think he’s going to try it. You can only sit in your house and think about golf and hit balls at the range for so long. You wanna go out and see if you can beat somebody.
“I do think he will try it, and I hope he likes it. The world of golf with Tiger is just so much better and so much more fun, even if we see glimpses from time to time.”
Woods, who is currently tied with Sam Snead at 82 PGA Tour wins, needs just one more victory to become the sole leader.
Despite Woods’ fitness struggles, Begay won’t dismiss the possibility of a miracle.
“I will not say he won’t win 83. I can’t. I’ve seen too many crazy things from him,” he concluded.
