Golf icon Tiger Woods has revealed that he recently underwent surgery to replace a disc in his lower back, following persistent pain and mobility issues. The procedure, performed in New York, marks his seventh back surgery in 11 years as the 15-time major champion continues to battle long-term health challenges.
In a social media post, Woods explained “The scans determined that I had a collapsed disc in L4/5, disc fragments, and a compromised spinal canal. I opted to have my disc replaced yesterday, and I already know I made a good decision for my health and my back.”
While Woods did not specify how long his recovery will take, it remains uncertain whether he will compete in his Hero World Challenge in the Bahamas or the PNC Championship with his son, Charlie — both scheduled for December.
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This is Woods’ second surgery of the year; he had another procedure in March after rupturing his left Achilles tendon, and it is also his second back operation in just over a year.
The golf legend first underwent back surgery in 2014, later having his lower back fused in 2017, a move that paved the way for his stunning comeback — including victory at the 2018 Tour Championship and his 15th major title at the 2019 Masters.
Since his 2021 car crash, which severely injured his right leg and ankle, Woods has played only 15 events, four of them at the PNC Championship, where he is permitted to use a cart.