Will Tiger Woods Play Golf Again in 2025?

By Sarah Miller · December 15, 2040

Yes, Tiger Woods has already returned to professional golf, competing in select tournaments despite ongoing health challenges and a reduced playing schedule.

Will Tiger Woods Play Golf Again? The Current Status

Tiger Woods, one of the most iconic figures in golf history, has confirmed his return to competitive play in 2025. While he no longer participates in a full PGA Tour season, Woods continues to appear in carefully chosen events, primarily major championships and select signature tournaments such as The Masters and the PNC Championship with his son, Charlie.

Following multiple back surgeries, a severe leg injury from a 2021 car accident, and chronic pain management, Woods' appearances are limited but impactful. His participation is now guided by physical readiness and strategic planning rather than a traditional tournament grind.

Recent Tournament Appearances and Performance

In 2024 and early 2025, Woods competed in several high-profile events, demonstrating resilience and competitive spirit despite not contending for wins. His focus has shifted toward maintaining mobility, managing recovery, and mentoring the next generation of players.

Played in the 2025 Masters Tournament at Augusta National
Teamed up with son Charlie at the 2024 PNC Championship
Withdrew from the 2024 PGA Championship due to plantar fasciitis flare-up
Participated in the 2024 Hero World Challenge on a medical exemption
Did not enter regular FedEx Cup events in 2025

Key Factors Influencing His Return

Several elements determine when and how often Tiger Woods competes:

Physical Health: Chronic back and leg issues require constant monitoring.
Tournament Exemptions: Receives special invitations due to legacy status.
Course Conditions: Prefers firm, fast courses that reduce strain on his body.
Family Involvement: Increasingly plays events where he can include his son.
Sponsorship Obligations: Brand partnerships influence appearance decisions.

Tiger Woods’ 2024–2025 Competitive Schedule

Tournament	Year	Status	Rounds Completed	Final Position	Score Relative to Par
The Masters	2025	Completed	4	T-68	+12
PNC Championship	2024	Completed	4	5th	-22 (team)
PGA Championship	2024	Withdrew	2	N/A	+9
Hero World Challenge	2024	Completed	4	T-18	-4
The Open Championship	2024	Did Not Enter	0	N/A	N/A

Table data source:1, 2, 3

The data shows Tiger Woods remains active in elite events but struggles with consistency and injury setbacks. His scoring average in 2024–2025 was over ten strokes higher than his peak years, yet his ability to complete four rounds at Augusta in 2025 marks a significant milestone in his recovery journey.

Future Outlook: Can He Compete Long-Term?

Tiger Woods himself has stated he does not expect to return to full-time competition. However, he remains committed to playing majors and team events as long as his body allows. Advances in sports medicine, custom fitness regimens, and improved equipment have extended his career beyond initial predictions.

Golf analysts believe Woods may continue making selective appearances through 2027, particularly at The Masters, which he has won five times. There is also speculation about a potential Ryder Cup captaincy or senior tour debut in the coming years.

Frequently Asked Questions About Tiger Woods Playing Golf

Is Tiger Woods still playing professional golf in 2025?

Yes, Tiger Woods is still playing professional golf in 2025, though only in select events such as The Masters and invitationals. He does not compete in regular PGA Tour events full-time due to physical limitations.

Why doesn’t Tiger Woods play more tournaments?

Tiger Woods plays fewer tournaments due to chronic back and leg injuries sustained over his career, including a serious car accident in 2021. His body requires extensive recovery time between events, limiting his ability to compete weekly.

Will Tiger Woods play in the 2026 Masters Tournament?

While not officially confirmed, Tiger Woods has expressed strong intent to return to the Masters if his health permits. Given his past record and emotional connection to Augusta, it is highly likely he will attempt to play in 2026.

Can Tiger Woods qualify for regular PGA Tour events?

Tiger Woods retains lifetime eligibility for certain signature events and receives sponsor exemptions for others. He does not rely on official world ranking or FedEx Cup points to qualify, allowing him flexibility in scheduling.

Is Tiger Woods considering retirement?

Tiger Woods has not announced formal retirement. Instead, he describes his current phase as “transitioning” into a new role in golf, balancing limited play with business ventures, course design, and mentoring his son Charlie.