Can Tiger Walk 72 Holes? Back Pain Plagues Legend

Golf icon Tiger Woods is facing significant physical challenges in his bid to return to professional play, with a close friend expressing doubt about his long-term competitive future. Following his latest back surgery to address a lumbar spine disc issue, Woods has not competed on the PGA Tour since the 2024 Open Championship. His friend, Notah Begay III, revealed that Woods struggles primarily with the physical act of walking 72 holes, despite maintaining strong ball speed and physical condition.

Begay suggested that if Woods were to return, flatter courses such as Colonial Country Club in Texas or Harbour Town Golf Links in South Carolina might be potential venues. These locations could better accommodate his current physical limitations, allowing him to complete a tournament. Woods has historically avoided these venues, making a comeback there a less conventional possibility. The driving force behind Woods' persistence appears to be his pursuit of Sam Snead's record of 83 PGA Tour victories.

The challenges Woods faces are substantial, with this being his second back surgery in just over a year. He also withdrew from the TGL due to a ruptured Achilles tendon. While videos show him practicing, the exact timeline for his competitive return remains unclear. The possibility of him competing on the Champions Tour, where carts are permitted, has also been raised as an alternative if walking becomes impossible.