Dec 21, 2024 (V7N) – Tiger Woods will team up with his 15-year-old son, Charlie, at the PNC Championship this week, marking the 15-time major winner’s first quasi-competitive appearance since back surgery in September. However, Woods acknowledged Friday that a full return to the PGA Tour remains distant.

Injury Challenges Continue

Woods, who turns 49 on December 30, has been plagued by injuries since a devastating car crash in 2021. Back issues and complications with his surgically repaired leg have limited his ability to play competitively.

"My leg is what it is. It's still here," Woods said. "But this year I struggled a lot with my back. It’s a lot better, but I still have a long way to go."

Woods’ only PGA Tour appearances this year include a 60th-place finish at the Masters and a withdrawal after one round at the Genesis Invitational in February.

"The recovery has gotten to be the hardest part," Woods said. "It gets harder over the course of rounds, weeks, months."

Preparing for competition remains a daunting task. "It starts with each and every day. You just do the little things correctly, and they add up," he said.

Playing with Charlie

The PNC Championship offers Woods a chance to compete in a lighter, family-friendly environment. This marks the fifth time the Woods duo has played in the event, with their best result being a runner-up finish in 2021.

Charlie recently defeated his father over nine holes. "He beat me for nine holes. He has yet to beat me for 18," Woods joked. "That day is coming. I'm just prolonging it as long as I possibly can."

Woods emphasized the father-son bonding aspect of the event, saying, "We want to win, but it's about the bond. It's about having a father-son moment together."

Looking Ahead

Woods plans to compete in January's launch of TGL, a tech-driven golf league he co-developed with Rory McIlroy. The six-team league will feature high-tech arenas with innovative elements like rotating greens.

"It's absolutely incredible. The rotating green blew me away," Woods said. "I think it's going to be a lot of fun for us and the fans."

While Woods’ competitive PGA Tour future remains uncertain, his focus on recovery, family moments, and new golf ventures ensures he remains an influential figure in the sport.

END/WSD/RH