Tiger Woods Faces Turbulent Conclusion in Long-Awaited Return after Masters
Tiger Woods makes a strong comeback at the Hero World Challenge in the Bahamas, showcasing his resilience in the face of challenges
Tiger Woods made his competitive golf comeback on Thursday at the Hero World Challenge in Albany, Bahamas. This was his first tournament since pulling out of the Masters in April. The 15-time major champion had a mixed first round, with four birdies, five bogeys, and a double bogey.
Woods started the first nine holes at even-par and was at one-under-par after the 14th before finishing the final four holes with two bogeys, a double bogey, and a par.
"I was rusty, I didn't have my rhythm," Woods told the Golf Channel broadcast after the round. "Conditions were tough early on. I struggled through it, but I didn't finish my round the way I needed to, and it ended up going sideways at the end."
Tiger Woods hopes to play a tournament a month
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Tiger Woods says hell walk away from golf when he no longer believes he can win
The 47-year-old finished the 20-man field in 18th place with a three-over 75. Meanwhile, 2023 Open champion Brian Harman and Tony Finau are tied for first place after shooting a five-under 67 in the first round at Albany Golf Club.
"After the round, I'm feeling a bit sore," Woods said. "We have some preparations to do tonight to be ready for tomorrow, then it's back to the gym to work hard and hopefully improve tomorrow."
Woods had ankle surgery in April after experiencing consistent pain throughout his three rounds at the Masters. He told reporters on Tuesday that his goal for next year is to compete once a month.
"I believe the ideal situation would be to have a tournament once a month," Woods stated. "I think that's achievable, starting with perhaps the Genesis in February and another event in March, close to the Players Championship.
"Currently, the major events are scheduled one per month, so it makes sense to follow that pattern. Now, I just need to prepare myself for all of that. I think this week is a significant step in that direction."
