Tiger Woods has once again stirred speculation about his future in professional golf after being seen hitting balls on the range-just months after suffering a serious Achilles injury.
Although the 15-time major winner has been mostly inactive in 2025, the sight of him training has reignited hope among fans and golf insiders that his career may not be over just yet.
At 49, Woods has already faced a litany of injuries, including multiple back surgeries and severe leg trauma from a 2021 car crash. Most recently, he underwent surgery in March for a ruptured Achilles tendon, which he sustained while preparing for a hopeful return at the Masters.
The injury forced him to withdraw from that event and has sidelined him for much of the season. Despite the setback, recovery is underway, and signs of progress are evident.
Renowned former Ryder Cup captain Sam Torrance has added fuel to the speculation. Speaking to Mirror US on behalf of Lottoland, Torrance dismissed the idea that retirement is near for Woods.
“Absolutely not,” he said. “There’s one thing I’ve learned over the years with Tiger Woods: never say never. He is just the most extraordinary golfer we’ve ever had.”
Torrance acknowledged he wasn’t fully informed about Woods’ current physical condition but confirmed he had seen him practicing.
“I still see him out on the range hitting balls,” Torrance added. “And I’d love to see him come back. Who knows, maybe he’ll be captaining the Ryder Cup.”
Signs of life, but no confirmed return
While Woods is not expected to play at The Open Championship at Royal Portrush next week, his appearance on the range has revived questions about whether he might still have one more comeback in him. Medical experts suggest that recovery from Achilles surgery can take up to a year, especially for an athlete of Woods’ age and injury history.
Even so, Woods has shown remarkable resilience throughout his career. His 2019 Masters victory came after many doubted he would ever compete again.
Whether he returns as a competitor or in a leadership role, like a Ryder Cup captain, remains to be seen.
Though not in the field, Woods has already shared advice for players at The Open, emphasizing how crucial shot control is on links courses. “You just have to hit different shots,” he said, warning about the unpredictable wind and weather.
For now, Woods’ competitive future is unclear. But if history is any guide, writing him off would be premature.
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