Tiger Woods Undergoes Seventh Back Surgery, Return Date Uncertain

ORLANDO, Fla. — Tiger Woods has recently undergone his seventh back surgery, raising questions about when the 15-time major champion will return to professional golf. Woods, who last competed at the 2024 Open Championship, is set to turn 50 next month, which will make him eligible for the PGA Tour Champions starting next year.

Notah Begay III, an analyst and close friend of Woods, shared insights into Woods’s condition, stating that his ability to walk remains a significant issue. “The biggest problem, in conversations I’ve had with him, is the walking. He hits it great and is in tremendous physical condition,” Begay said. “It’s just can he walk 72 holes plus a pro-am? I don’t know, and that’s the big question.”

As Woods recovers, there is speculation that he may consider participating in the Charles Schwab Challenge and the RBC Heritage in 2026—events he typically skips. Both events feature flatter terrains, which could be more manageable for Woods’s current condition. “It’s possible you may see him in those tournaments,” Begay noted.

Looking ahead, Begay is optimistic about Woods’s prospects in the PGA Tour Champions, suggesting, “We’re dying to see him on the Champions Tour. He can take a cart, and the walking becomes alleviated at that point.” With Woods eager to compete again, Begay adds, “You can only sit in your house and think about golf for so long.”

Currently, Woods is tied with Sam Snead for the most PGA Tour victories at 82, and Begay remains hopeful that Woods could still win a record 83rd title. “I will not say he won’t win 83. I can’t. I’ve seen too many crazy things from him,” Begay stated. The future remains uncertain, but the golf community eagerly awaits Woods’s next move.