Post by : Mariam
Al-Faris
Golf great Tiger Woods will not compete in this year’s Hero World Challenge, set for December 4–7 at Albany in the Bahamas, the organisers confirmed when they published the final player roster on Wednesday. Although he remains the event’s host, Woods will be absent from the playing field as he recovers from recent back surgery.
When the initial invitations were released three weeks ago, organisers left three roster spots open for late additions. Observers had speculated Woods could occupy one of those places if cleared to play, but following a lumbar disc replacement he has not yet been authorised to return to competitive golf and no definitive timetable for his comeback has been given.
Woods has endured multiple medical setbacks in recent years. In March he underwent an operation for a ruptured left Achilles tendon, and he has previously had several procedures related to serious leg injuries sustained in a 2021 car crash. The latest spinal surgery increases the number of interventions he is managing as he rehabilitates.
His most recent start in a PGA Tour-sanctioned event came at the British Open in July 2024, where he missed the cut. Since then Woods has focused on recovery and made only limited public appearances, making his decision to skip the Bahamas tournament a continuation of his cautious return to the sport.
The tournament field is now complete at 20 players. The final three slots were awarded to Jordan Spieth, Billy Horschel and Akshay Bhatia, who will join the invited lineup that supports the Tiger Woods Foundation. Even without competing, Woods’ role as host maintains the event’s profile.
The Hero World Challenge will still feature a high-quality roster. Two-time defending champion Scottie Scheffler is on the entry list, as is 2016 champion Hideki Matsuyama, among other top-ranked players. The event is known for its compact, elite field and competitive yet informal format.
Beyond competition, the tournament raises funds for educational and youth initiatives run by the Tiger Woods Foundation. The foundation has provided scholarships, learning programs and mentorship to thousands of students, and the event continues to channel proceeds toward those efforts.
Supporters around the world remain hopeful for Woods’ full recovery. His presence on any start list attracts attention, and while recent surgeries have delayed his return, fans and peers alike anticipate a future comeback when he is medically ready.
Woods’ sporting record — including 15 major titles — underlines his ongoing influence in golf. Even while stepping back from tournament play, he continues to shape the sport through his foundation and his role as a mentor and ambassador.
Looking ahead, attention will turn to Woods’ rehabilitation progress in 2025 and the prospect of selective appearances or exhibition starts if his health permits. For now, the Hero World Challenge will proceed without its host in the playing field, with organisers and fans watching for updates on his recovery.
The event will go on as scheduled, carrying both competitive interest and charitable purpose, while the golf community waits for clearer signs of Woods’ return to competition.
English
