Tiger Woods, the 15-time major champion, decided to pull off an April Fools joke this year by claiming his doctors cleared him to play in the 2025 Masters despite having surgery to repair a ruptured Achilles tendon. Woods joked about using “explosive lifts” and spending time in a hyperbaric chamber to get ready for the tournament. While it was an obvious prank, not everyone caught on initially, with CNBC reporting Woods’ release as legitimate news before realizing the prank. Woods announced his Achilles tendon rupture on March 11 and had a minimally invasive procedure to repair it. His timeline for returning to competition is unclear, but last year, Bernhard Langer returned to play on the Champions Tour three months after tearing his left Achilles.
This latest surgery is just one of many for Woods, who had his sixth back surgery in September to address a nerve impingement. Although he missed the Hero World Challenge, Woods played in the PNC Championship with his son Charlie in December. However, Woods withdrew from the Genesis Invitational following the passing of his mother, Tida. Despite this setback, Woods has been training for the Masters when he ruptured his Achilles. Friends and commentators believe Woods will attempt to make a competitive return but wouldn’t be surprised if he ultimately decides to retire. His friend Fred Couples mentioned that Woods is in great spirits after the surgery, highlighting the impact spending time with his son Charlie has had on his perspective on golf.
The 2025 Masters is set to begin next Thursday, April 10, with the PGA Championship starting on May 15 and the U.S. Open on June 12. The major season will conclude with the Open Championship at Royal Portrush on July 17. As Woods continues his recovery and rehabilitation, speculation remains about his competitive future in golf. Some believe that Woods may eventually decide to retire from competitive golf to focus on other aspects of his life, including spending time with his family. Whether Woods decides to return to competitive golf or hang up his clubs for good, his impact on the sport will be remembered for years to come.
Josh Schrock, a writer and reporter for Golf.com, covers the latest news and updates in the golf world, including Tiger Woods’ recent injury and recovery journey. With a background in sports journalism and a passion for the game of golf, Schrock provides insightful commentary on Woods’ career and potential future in the sport. As Woods navigates his rehabilitation process, Schrock’s coverage offers fans a glimpse into the challenges and decisions facing the legendary golfer. Stay tuned to Golf.com for the latest updates on Tiger Woods and other golf news as the 2025 season unfolds.
