Tiger Woods has hinted at a potential return to competitive golf in the upcoming Masters tournament, expressing hope during a news conference on Tuesday. The legendary golfer, who celebrated his 50th birthday in late December, has been sidelined following a series of injuries affecting his back and Achilles tendon, which have prevented him from participating in professional events since the 2024 Open Championship.
When asked if he had ruled out a comeback for the Masters, Woods responded with a knowing smile, leaving fans and enthusiasts curious about his status. “It’s just one of those things where, each and every day, I keep trying. I keep progressing. I keep working on it, trying to get stronger, trying to get more endurance in this body,” he said, indicating his determination to return to peak performance.
Despite his challenges, Woods remains a figure of interest for bettors, although the odds of him winning the Masters this year are not favorable. Currently, he is listed at 500-1 by Westgate SuperBook, a testament to the public’s wavering confidence given his absence from competition. BetMGM presents slightly better odds at 175-1, but both reflect a substantial decrease in bets compared to previous years when Woods held a stronger presence in the golf world.
In contrast to Woods’ long odds, current PGA Tour standout Scottie Scheffler is favored to win the Masters, with betting odds standing at +275. Scheffler has made an impressive start to the season, boasting a win alongside high finishes in his three tournaments. He is followed by defending champion Rory McIlroy at +750, although history shows that repeating as a Masters champion is a rare feat.
This year’s odds board also features notable players such as Bryson DeChambeau, Jon Rahm, and former Masters champions like Patrick Reed and Hideki Matsuyama, further solidifying the competition expected at Augusta National.
As Woods continues his recovery efforts, the golf world watches with bated breath. His determination to play again serves as a reminder of the resilience and passion that has defined his storied career. Fans remain hopeful that he might once again grace the greens at Augusta, even as the odds seem to stack against him.