Tiger Woods is set to make his return to the prestigious Masters Tournament at Augusta National Golf Club, as the 48-year-old golfing legend aims to secure his sixth green jacket and 16th major championship title.

Despite ongoing physical challenges stemming from a fused ankle and other lingering issues, Woods expressed cautious optimism about his chances, stating: “If everything comes together, I think I can get one more.”

The 82-time PGA Tour winner will tee off alongside Jason Day and Max Homa on Thursday, marking his first official tournament appearance since withdrawing from the Genesis Invitational in February due to a stomach illness.

Woods’ recent history at the Masters has been marked by a mix of success and setbacks. In 2023, he made the cut for a record-tying 23rd consecutive time at the storied venue but withdrew before the conclusion of Round 3 due to a flare-up of plantar fasciitis in his right leg. Following the tournament, he underwent ankle fusion surgery to address the lingering issues from his near-fatal 2021 single-car crash.

While the 48-year-old now reports no ankle pain, he acknowledged that the impact of the injury has extended to other parts of his body, with the back, knee, and overall endurance being major concerns. “The ankle doesn’t hurt anymore. It’s fused. It’s not going anywhere,” Woods said. “But, the back, the knee — other parts of the body have to take the load of it, and just the endurance capability of walking a long time and being on my feet for a long time.”

The 2024 Masters tournament will serve as a crucial test for Woods’ physical abilities and his quest to add to his legendary career.

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