Hero World Challenge organisers confirmed on December 2, 2025 that Tiger Woods’ recovery from his October lumbar disc-replacement surgery is proceeding much more slowly than expected.
Woods, 15-time major champion, said he’s still “a ways away” from setting a schedule for competitive play. He added that while he’s recently been cleared to resume light golf activities — specifically chipping and putting — full swings and tournament-level play remain off-limits.
What’s happening in rehab
- The October surgery marks his seventh back operation, following a series of earlier procedures (including an Achilles tendon repair in March 2025).
- As of early December, he’s been given clearance to start light gym work: strengthening exercises, rotational training, and gradual conditioning — but he emphasises the need for patience so the new disc can “set.”
- Woods says recovery from a disc-replacement is inherently slow, and even basic practice must follow a step-by-step rehabilitation protocol.
Future plans — uncertain, but still interest
Though Woods will turn 50 later this month — making him eligible for the PGA Tour Champions in 2026 — he insisted he’s not ready yet to discuss joining senior-tour events.
He said he wants to “get back to playing again,” but only intends to solidify a schedule once he feels physically ready — able to swing, walk a full course, and handle the demands of competition.
Woods also said he will miss the upcoming PNC Championship with his son and will delay his debut in the next season of the indoor golf-simulator league TGL — the indoor golf league he co-founded.
Why this matters
Woods has endured repeated health setbacks — from severe leg injuries after a 2021 car crash to the recent Achilles and back surgeries. This latest lumbar disc replacement is serious; recovery from disc surgery is often unpredictable, especially for a high-performance athlete in his late 40s.
Even with his talent, fitness and will to return — which he says remains strong — the path ahead is long. As of now, there is no firm return date.
For fans and the golfing world, the message is clear: if Woods does make a comeback, it will depend more on his health and rehab progress than on ambition.
