AUGUSTA, Ga. — Let the Tiger Watch begin.
Tiger Woods wasn’t ready to officially say on Sunday that he’ll play in the 86th Masters, which is scheduled to begin Thursday at Augusta National Golf Club. But in a statement on Twitter, Woods did say that he would be arriving here Sunday to continue practicing and preparing to play. Later Sunday, he showed up at Augusta National to get some practice in.
Woods, a five-time Masters champion, said it will be a “game-time decision.” It would be his first appearance in a regular PGA Tour event in more than 17 months, after he was seriously injured in a car wreck outside Los Angeles on Feb. 23, 2021. He said doctors nearly had to amputate his right leg.
Woods’ first Masters victory was almost 25 years ago, on April 13, 1997.
A little after 1:30 p.m. ET, Woods arrived on the practice putting green at Augusta National. He rolled a few there, under the watchful eye of friend and associate Rob McNamara. Then he moved on to the chipping area, with McNamara and caddie Joe LaCava at his side. Then it was on to some full swings.
The plan is for Woods to play nine holes; he went out and played the second nine Sunday afternoon and Monday he is expected to go around the first nine.
As he did Sunday, Woods showed up in FootJoy golf shoes. This time, he went with a white pair.
After spending an hour working on the range and putting green, Woods headed to the first tee to play the first nine with Justin Thomas and Fred Couples.
Though he had a slight, but noticeable hitch in his right leg as he walked, Woods played well, particularly off the tee and with his irons. Despite the lingering “will he, won’t he?” that still hovers, his game looked ready.
The patrons were ready, too. There were shouts of encouragement on every hole.
While he was clearly getting prepared for the 86th Masters and a run at a sixth green jacket, Woods also enjoyed his afternoon alongside two good friends. He was laughing as they played, clapped for good shots from his…
Source : espn
