Tiger Woods’ hopes of making a return to professional golf have been dealt a significant blow with the announcement of his recent surgery. Following a serious car crash in 2021, Woods has participated in only 11 golf events. Previously ranked as the world No. 1 for 281 consecutive weeks, Woods has now dropped to the 2001st spot due to his extended absence from the sport. The latest setback came as he underwent a seventh surgery on his back, forcing him to cancel his anticipated participation in the Genesis Invitational following the passing of his mother.

In a statement released on his dedicated X channel, Woods revealed that he had undergone a lumbar disc replacement surgery in his L4/5 Lumbar spine to address persistent back issues. The surgery, performed by Dr. Sheeraz Qureshi and his team at the Hospital for Special Surgery in New York, was successful. However, this latest procedure is expected to prolong his recovery, with speculations suggesting it could be at least a year before Woods can contemplate a comeback to competitive golf.

Woods’ health challenges have been mounting, with this recent surgery marking his third major operation since 2023. His physical condition has not been the same since sustaining severe injuries in a car accident in 2021, which required emergency surgery. Despite his determination, the golf legend’s return to professional golf seems increasingly uncertain given his ongoing health struggles. In the meantime, Woods has been seen supporting his 16-year-old son Charlie, who is following in his father’s golfing footsteps by competing in junior championships.