As Tiger Woods’ 50th birthday approaches in December, speculation is mounting regarding his participation in the PGA Tour Champions, the senior golf circuit that recently announced its 2026 schedule.
Woods has not committed to playing, and his schedule remains uncertain, particularly following his recent back surgery, which may prevent him from practicing until January.
However, Woods has previously hinted at the possibility of competing in the Champions Tour. He has mentioned the appeal of using a golf cart and reuniting with fellow golfers like Jim Furyk, Steve Stricker, and Ernie Els.
From a competitive perspective, participating in 54-hole events with access to a cart could be beneficial for him to hone his skills for major championships.
Since a car accident in February 2021, Woods has played only 11 tournaments worldwide, with none last year. Following three consecutive missed cuts at major events, his ability to compete requires additional practice, which is challenging without regular competition.
The Champions Tour provides a good opportunity for Woods to ease back into competitive play. Several potential events have been identified:
Event Pros and Cons
For instance, one event is local and scheduled the week before the Genesis Invitational, a tournament he hosts. However, playing back-to-back weeks might be too taxing.
Another tournament is conveniently located in South Florida, aligning with the Arnold Palmer Invitational. But the nostalgia for Bay Hill may pull him back there instead of the Champions Tour.
Further options are available close to major events, such as the PGA Championship and U.S. Open, where his friends have roles in hosting, making participation appealing.
However, concerns remain about the physical demands of these events, especially considering that the U.S. Senior Open requires walking, which may limit his participation. Ultimately, Woods’ willingness to compete will hinge on his health and conditioning as he plans for the next golfing season.
