[Masters] Woods "Sudden Declaration"..."Challenging Sixth Green Jacket"

Tiger Woods is smiling brightly during a practice round ahead of the Masters. Augusta, USA = Getty Images / Photo by Multibits

[Asia Economy Golf Specialist Reporter Kim Hyun-jun] The 'Golf Emperor' Tiger Woods is finally returning to the field.

Two days before the start of the 'Masters Tournament,' he stated at a press conference held on the 6th (Korean time) at Augusta National Golf Club in Georgia, USA (par 72, 7,510 yards), "I think I will be able to participate in the competition." It has been a full 1 year and 5 months since the 'Autumn Masters' in November 2020. Woods was seriously injured in a car accident in February last year in Los Angeles (LA) County, California, breaking both legs, and after lying in bed for three months, he went through a step-by-step rehabilitation process involving a wheelchair and crutches.

In fact, it is surprising that Woods even picked up a golf club. In December, he and his son Charlie finished as runners-up in the 'Family Competition' PNC Championship. Although it is a 'two-person scramble' event where each player tees off and the next shot is taken from the better position, Woods impressed with a 10-under par on the first day and an incredible 15-under par on the final day. He hit several drives over 300 yards, showed 'computer iron shots,' and his short game was especially comparable to his prime.

Woods moved to Augusta early last week, and the spotlight was on whether he would participate. The Masters guarantees lifetime entry to all past champions, and there is no deadline for registration. This allowed him to practice rounds daily with Justin Thomas, Billy Horschel, Fred Couples (all from the USA), and others while considering his decision. Moreover, this tournament is his 'winning stronghold,' having won five times in 1997, 2001-2002 (back-to-back), 2005, and 2019. The global golf community is heating up.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.