Fifteen-time major champion Tiger Woods is increasing his training workload ahead of December’s Hero World Challenge in the Bahamas, though his playing status remains uncertain, Sportstar reported. Woods confirmed he will attend the tournament as host, but stopped short of committing to compete in the 20-man field.
Woods last competed on March 24, 2026, when his Jupiter Links Golf Club fell to the Los Angeles Golf Club in the TGL championship match, according to Sportstar. His competitive schedule has faced severe restrictions due to a lengthy injury history.
Sportstar reported that Woods ruptured his left Achilles in March 2025 and subsequently underwent his seventh back procedure that October. Three days after the TGL finals, a rollover car crash in Florida resulted in an arrest on suspicion of driving under the influence, leading Woods to step away from golf to focus on his health.
Tiger Woods will host the Hero World Challenge, with 17 of 20 players announced so far – leaving room for Woods to take one of the last three spots. “I’m there either way,” Woods said. 🟢 More on https://t.co/ft7Hjuwep4 pic.twitter.com/khTUxucmoy
Seventeen players announced for Albany event
- Tournament Field: Seventeen players are currently announced for the no-cut Albany event, leaving three tournament exemptions available.
- Schedule Options: The Hero World Challenge serves as the first of multiple late-year opportunities, followed by the PNC Championship and the TGL season.
- Activity Level: Training increases point toward a potential return before the calendar year closes.
Will Woods play in the Bahamas?
Sportstar reported that Woods addressed his physical readiness during an interview with SiriusXM PGA Tour Radio. “I’m feeling better, no doubt about that,” Woods told SiriusXM PGA Tour Radio, as reported by Sportstar. “I’ve been training quite a bit.”
While preparation is underway, the 50-year-old golfer left his participation status open. Sportstar noted that Woods was not included in the initial 17-player field announcement for the event.
2026 Hero World Challenge field is set with spots still open. Tiger Woods, the host, hasn't confirmed if he'll play in his own event. pic.twitter.com/jA4M0PD92H
“I will be at Hero,” Woods said, according to Sportstar. “I’m there either way, so I’ll see you there.”
What follows the Albany event?
Sportstar reported that the Hero World Challenge runs December 3-6 at Albany in the Bahamas. Seventeen players are currently locked into the 20-man, no-cut tournament.
Additional appearances before the year ends include the PNC Championship in Orlando from December 17-20, where Woods has frequently partnered with his son Charlie, according to Sportstar. Jupiter Links is also scheduled to begin its TGL season on December 27.
| Event | Location | Dates |
|---|---|---|
| Hero World Challenge | Albany, Bahamas | December 3–6 |
| PNC Championship | Orlando, Florida | December 17–20 |
| TGL Season Start | Jupiter Links GC | December 27 |
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