All the clues that Tiger Woods will be playing at the Masters in 2024……
Tiger Woods’ recent visit to Augusta alongside Justin Thomas and Augusta National chairman Fred Ridley wasn’t just a casual outing. Known for his serious approach to golf, Woods was gearing up for his 26th appearance at the Masters next week.
As a five-time champion, Woods is automatically qualified for the prestigious event, and the protocol dictates that past winners must notify the tournament if they are withdrawing. With no such indication from Woods and his recent visit, it’s safe to assume his participation.
Despite facing physical challenges from surgeries on his knee and back, Woods has always maintained his competitive spirit, even achieving a remarkable victory in 2019 after spinal fusion surgery. However, since his crash in February 2021, he has only participated in five tournaments, raising concerns about his readiness.
Woods’ presence on the course significantly boosts engagement in golf, especially at a time when the sport has seen a decline in viewership due to the absence of top players who have joined LIV Golf. Negotiations are underway to reunify the sport under one administration, with hopes of bringing stars like Jon Rahm, Dustin Johnson, Brooks Koepka, and Bryson DeChambeau back to regular PGA Tour events.
With the Masters approaching, anticipation is high, especially with Woods potentially in the mix. His track record at Augusta is impressive, having missed the cut only once, back in 1996 when he competed as an amateur. Since then, he has dominated, winning 15 major titles, including his first Masters victory in 1997 by a record 12 strokes.
If Woods makes the cut next week, he will set a new record at Augusta, surpassing Gary Player and Freddie Couples with 24 consecutive cuts. As the golf world eagerly awaits his performance, Woods’ presence continues to elevate the excitement surrounding the sport’s most prestigious events.