Tiger Woods dropped a post last week that sent shockwaves through the golf world. On Oct. 11, the 15-time major champion revealed he had undergone his seventh back surgery, casting serious doubt over his anticipated return during TGL’s Season 2.
Now, days after the update, on Oct. 15, Woods broke his silence with a heartfelt message filled with gratitude and disappointment.
“Wish I could be at Pebble Beach this week for the TGR JR Invitational and Tiger Woods Invitational. I want to thank our presenting partners, @TaylorMadeGolf and USLI. To the 60 junior golfers – keep pushing yourselves on and off the course. And to our TWI guests, thank you for continued support of the event and the @TGRFound,” the post read.
Woods was expected to appear at the TGR JR Invitational and the Tiger Woods Invitational, both held at the iconic Pebble Beach Golf Links, but the post just after the injury confirmed his absence.
The surgery, performed by Dr. Sheeraz Qureshi at the Hospital for Special Surgery in New York, addressed a collapsed disc at L4/L5, disc fragments, and a compromised spinal canal.
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A lumbar disc replacement involves removing the damaged disc in the lower spine and replacing it with an artificial one made of metal or a metal-plastic hybrid.
According to reports, recovery from lumbar disc surgery typically requires anywhere from six to 12 weeks of light activity. A complete return to full physical exertion and strenuous activity can stretch anywhere from three to six months.
This timeline is, of course, a generalization, with individual outcomes varying based on the specifics of the procedure and the patient’s overall health.
For Woods, who turns 50 next December, the pressure’s piling on. Recovery gets tougher with age, and after decades of wear and tear from an elite level of golf, this comeback won’t be as smooth.
When is Tiger Woods expected to return?
Woods hasn’t teed it up competitively since his playoff loss at the 2024 PNC Championship, where his son Charlie stole headlines with his first-ever hole-in-one.
Just weeks later, in February, Woods underwent knee surgery that sidelined him from all major tournaments and competitive events throughout the year.
At the time, insiders hinted at a possible return by late 2025 or early 2026, but that timeline now feels increasingly uncertain.
With the recent back surgery, his expected participation in TGL Season 2 also appears to be slipping away. Fans had hoped for a dramatic comeback in the tech-driven format, but Woods has yet to confirm any plans or recovery milestones.
Still, there’s a new chapter waiting in the wings.
Once Big Cat turns 50 this December, he becomes eligible for the PGA Tour Champions. If his health allows, Woods’ entry into the senior circuit could be a game-changer.
It could inject fresh energy, a massive viewership and a whole new level of competition into the senior tour.
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