Tiger Woods is set to be eligible for the PGA Tour Champions when he turns 50 on December 30, 2025. Fellow golfers are expressing both hope and uncertainty about his participation in the senior tour, primarily due to Woods’ private nature and ongoing health issues. The fact that players are allowed to use golf carts and participate in shorter 54-hole tournaments may make the Champions Tour more appealing to him.
Several prospective tournament venues in 2026 hold personal significance for Woods, including courses where he has previously triumphed. As the PGA Tour concludes its 2025 season this week at the RSM Classic at Sea Island Resort, thoughts turn toward the upcoming season, including potential changes in field sizes and exempt spots due to new regulations.
Woods has undergone significant surgeries over the past two years, including his seventh back surgery in October and Achilles tendon surgery in February. His tendency to keep his plans under wraps means no one is certain if he will join the Champions Tour. Jim Furyk, a fellow golfer, highlighted Woods’ habit of not revealing too much about his future intentions, thereby adding to the uncertainty.
Despite the speculation, other golfers, including Ernie Els, express clear optimism about Woods’ future on the Champions Tour, suggesting that his participation could greatly benefit not just him, but also contribute positively to the tour itself. Els humorously remarked, “beat us again, if you can,” encouraging Woods and recognizing the potential excitement his presence would bring.
Fellow competitors in the RSM Classic have shared similar sentiments regarding Woods’ potential involvement in the Champions Tour. Davis Love III, who has been a member for over 11 years, and Zach Johnson, soon to join the tour, both hope to see Woods play, acknowledging the boost his participation would bring to the community, sponsors, and television ratings. Matt Kuchar highlighted the unpredictability surrounding Woods’ health and competitive spirit, emphasizing that Woods has a history of defying expectations.
Woods’ ability to ride in a golf cart during Champions Tour events could be enticing for him, particularly given his extensive medical history, including multiple surgeries and a devastating car accident in 2021. While Woods has consistently valued his physical fitness and competitive edge, opponents of the stigmatization surrounding cart use, like Love, advocate for a more inclusive approach.
Historically, some of the biggest names in golf have embraced the Champions Tour, with varying levels of participation. While some like Jack Nicklaus thrived, others, such as Phil Mickelson, have had limited involvement before shifting their focus elsewhere.
In conclusion, while the question of whether Tiger Woods will join the PGA Tour Champions remains uncertain, the supportive comments from fellow players and the potential advantages that the tour offers may create a hopeful avenue for his return to competitive golf. As Woods approaches this significant milestone, golfers and fans alike anticipate what the future holds for one of the sport’s greatest legends.