The 2026 Genesis Invitational is set to kick off on February 16 at Riviera Country Club in Pacific Palisades, California, marking the final PGA Tour event of the West Coast Swing. Ludvig Aberg will defend his title, having won the 2025 edition at Torrey Pines after the tournament was relocated due to wildfires. The event will be hosted by Tiger Woods, though he will not be participating this year.
Woods, a 15-time major champion, has faced significant health challenges recently. He suffered a rupture of his left Achilles while preparing for a competitive return in March 2025, and subsequently underwent lumbar disc replacement surgery on his lower back in October. As of now, there is no set timeline for his return to the golf circuit. While he has remained active in the public eye, particularly through his involvement with the Jupiter Links TGL team, Woods has acknowledged that he still needs more time before he can return to the sport.
This absence from the Genesis Invitational marks the fourth time in the last six years that Woods has been unable to compete in the event he has hosted since 2020. Despite his dedication to hosting, he has yet to capture a victory at this tournament. His last competitive appearance came nearly two years ago at the 2024 British Open, where he unfortunately missed the cut.
As fans anticipate the tournament, the hope remains for Woods’ eventual return, highlighting the enduring possibility of his comeback and the impact he has on the sport.