Tiger’s injury-cursed season halted after surgery

Tiger’s injury-cursed season halted after surgery

Tiger Woods has recently undergone another surgery on his back, marking the sixth operation on his lower back in the last ten years. This latest procedure, described by Woods as a microdecompression surgery targeting the lumbar spine to address nerve impingement, was performed with the goal of alleviating the significant pain that has plagued him throughout the 2024 golf season. The recovery period for this surgery is estimated to be between eight to twelve weeks.

In a statement following the surgery, Woods expressed cautious optimism about the outcome. He mentioned that the procedure had gone smoothly and that he was hopeful it would relieve the back spasms and persistent pain that had affected his performance throughout the year. Woods emphasized his commitment to tackling the rehabilitation process with determination, looking forward to resuming normal life activities and, notably, returning to the sport of golf.

At 48 years old, Woods’ 2024 season has been notably disrupted by his ongoing back issues. He has only participated in five tournaments this year, including the four major championships and the Genesis Invitational, which he hosted in Florida. During the Genesis Invitational, Woods openly discussed the impact of his back problems on his game, particularly citing discomfort from back spasms which affected his performance, including an errant shot on the final hole of the opening round. He indicated that these spasms were a significant issue beyond the competitive environment.

Woods’ challenges with his health extend beyond just his back. Since a severe leg injury sustained in a car crash in early 2021, Woods has faced a series of medical challenges and subsequent surgeries that have severely limited his ability to play regularly. The car crash marked a pivotal moment in his career, significantly affecting his playing schedule and overall physical condition.

Looking ahead, Woods is not scheduled to return to competitive play until the Hero World Challenge, which is set to take place in the Bahamas in December. Additionally, he is set to participate in the PNC Championship, an event that will see him partner with his son, Charlie. The PNC Championship is slated to begin on December 21 in Florida. These upcoming events represent significant milestones for Woods as he continues his journey through recovery and aims to reestablish his presence in the world of professional golf.