Daily Express reported that Tiger Woods has decided to take a significant break from professional golf following a tough outing at The Open Championship.
After an underwhelming performance at Royal Troon, Tiger Woods is setting aside his clubs until December.
The golf legend participated in several major tournaments during the 2024 season, but his showing at Royal Troon prompted a reevaluation. There, he concluded with a 14-over-par score across 36 holes, which led him to miss the cut dramatically.
In response to recent setbacks, Tiger Woods expressed his plans to spend the forthcoming months focusing on his physical health and golf mechanics. "I'm not going to play until then (the Hero World Challenge)," he detailed.
This hiatus, ending with his participation in the Hero World Challenge in December, is viewed as a time for rehabilitation and refinement of his skills on the course.
Additionally, he plans to join his son, Charlie, at the PNC Championship, a tournament that has now become a cherished tradition for the pair.
Tiger Woods has contended in notable tournaments this year, including the Genesis Invitational and the Masters, leading up to his recent participation at Royal Troon. His struggle was immediately apparent from the tournament's onset, posting an 8-over-par 79 on the first day alone.
Continuing difficulties marked his second day at Royal Troon, where he scored a 7-over-par 78. These performances affected his approach, with Woods openly critiquing his play:
Well, it wasn't very good. I made a double there at 2 right out of the hopper when I needed to go the other way. Just was fighting it pretty much all day. I never really hit it close enough to make birdies and consequently made a lot of bogeys.
The golfer's decision came shortly after this tough performance, during which he also addressed swirling retirement rumors. Despite these challenges and speculations by the likes of Colin Montgomerie, Tiger remains committed to the sport and looks forward to competing in next year's Open at Royal Portrush.
Looking beyond the recuperation period, Tiger Woods has set his sights on continuing his career into the next year and beyond. His perspective on his future participation remains optimistic.
When questioned about his comeback, specifically his intent to play in the 2025 Open, Tiger Woods responded positively, his manner marked by a broad grin, indicating not just plans but enthusiasm for his future in golf: "Next year's Open? Yeah, definitely."
Tiger Woods' announcement indicates a pause and a period of potential transformation. Reflecting on his storied career and his future engagements, such as the Hero World Challenge and the PNC Championship, this upcoming break could be pivotal.
Throughout the myriad challenges and speculations, Woods intends to return stronger and ready to take on the challenges of professional golf. His dedication to improving physically and strategically emphasizes his enduring commitment to the sport and his fans. As December approaches, the golfing community eagerly anticipates the return of one of its most iconic figures.
