The legendary Tiger Woods could be set to leave PGA Tour in the near future and has seemingly hinted at making the next step in his career

 

The legendary Tiger Woods could be set to leave PGA Tour in the near future and has seemingly hinted at making the next step in his career

Tiger Woods Hints at Major Career Shift: Could He Join the PGA Tour Champions?

 

Golf icon Padraig Harrington has revealed that Tiger Woods is considering leaving the PGA Tour. At 48 years old, Woods is just 18 months away from his 50th birthday, which would qualify him for the PGA Tour Champions, formerly known as the Senior PGA Tour. The organization is even considering changing its age rules to accommodate the 15-time major winner.

Woods’ Loyalty and Future Moves

Despite rejecting invitations to join the rival LIV Golf Tour, Woods has remained committed to the PGA Tour. However, as he nears the milestone age of 50, his plans might change. When asked by Steve Stricker about joining the senior tour before turning 50, Woods responded: “No, I’m not ready,” and added, “I want to follow in the same footsteps as Jack Nicklaus, Arnold Palmer, Bernhard Langer [by entering aged 50].”

Benefits of the Senior Tour

The PGA Tour Champions allows players to use carts, reducing the physical strain and potentially increasing Woods’ chances of winning senior titles. Harrington has suggested that Woods is enthusiastic about the idea, stating, “He’d love to win that Grand Slam and get some of the other senior majors on his CV.”

A Storied Career with Room for More

Woods boasts 15 major titles, just three short of Nicklaus’s record of 18. However, this year has been challenging, with a 60th place finish at the Masters and missed cuts at both the PGA Championship and US Open. Transitioning to the PGA Tour Champions could offer Woods a chance to claim a unique Grand Slam, adding the US Senior Open to his victories alongside his US Junior, US Amateur, and US Open titles.

The Potential Impact on Golf

Landing Woods would significantly boost viewership for the PGA Tour Champions. Tour president Miller Brady has indicated a willingness to lower the age limit if Woods expresses interest. In fact, Brady held a meeting last June to prepare for “the craziest things” that might occur if Woods joins the senior tour.

Competition and Excitement

Geoff Ogilvy, another former US Open winner, could join the PGA Tour Champions around the same time as Woods. Ogilvy believes that the senior tour could rejuvenate his career, particularly with the option of using a cart.

Upcoming Events and Expectations

The US Senior Open is set to commence at Newport Country Club this Thursday, with England’s Richard Bland favored following his Senior PGA Championship victory. As fans and sponsors eagerly await Woods’ next move, the anticipation is palpable.

Woods’ potential shift to the PGA Tour Champions could revolutionize the senior tour, driving unprecedented interest and viewership. Whether he decides to make the transition before or after turning 50, his involvement will undoubtedly mark a significant milestone in the world of golf.