- Golf legend Tiger Woods has confirmed his participation in the upcoming Genesis Invitational at Torrey Pines, marking his first PGA Tour event since last July’s British Open. Woods, who underwent his sixth back surgery, a microdiscectomy, in September to address leg pain, will be back on the course walking 18 holes competitively. This return comes shortly after the passing of his mother, Kultida Woods, on Tuesday at the age of 80.
The Genesis Invitational, traditionally held at Riviera Country Club, has been relocated to Torrey Pines due to wildfires that have ravaged the Pacific Palisades area near Los Angeles. Although Woods has not secured a victory at Riviera, his history at Torrey Pines is illustrious, with eight wins, including the memorable 2008 U.S. Open. His most recent top-10 finish at this venue was a tie for ninth at the Farmers Insurance Open in 2020.
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This tournament is a signature event on the PGA Tour, featuring a limited field without a cut, providing Woods a platform to compete without the pressure of making the weekend. His last full four-round event was the Masters last year, where he broke the record for consecutive cuts made but finished last among those who made the cut with scores of 82-77 over the final rounds. Woods also competed in the other three majors last year but missed the cut in each.
After a severe car crash in February 2021 that left him with significant leg injuries, Woods missed the entire 2021 season. He did not participate in his December-hosted Hero World Challenge but has been active in less strenuous formats, playing an exhibition with his son Charlie and competing in the indoor TGL league.
Woods’ return to competitive golf at one of his favored courses is eagerly anticipated by fans and the golfing community, watching closely to see how he manages his health and performance after a challenging period both personally and professionally.
Key Points:
Tiger Woods’ Return: Tiger Woods has committed to playing in the Genesis Invitational at Torrey Pines, his first PGA Tour event since the British Open in July of the previous year.
Recent Surgery: Woods underwent a microdiscectomy in September for leg pain, marking his sixth back surgery.
Personal Loss: His participation follows shortly after the death of his mother, Kultida Woods, on Tuesday at age 80.
Venue Change: The event has shifted from Riviera Country Club to Torrey Pines due to wildfires affecting the Pacific Palisades area.
Historical Performance: Woods has an impressive record at Torrey Pines with eight wins, including the 2008 U.S. Open, and his last top-10 finish there was in 2020.
Event Format: The Genesis Invitational is a no-cut, limited-field signature event.
Recent Competitions: Woods’ last full tournament was the Masters last year, where he broke a cut record but had a poor weekend. He missed cuts at the other majors in 2024.
Recovery from Injury: After missing 2021 due to a car crash that severely injured his leg, Woods has slowly returned to competition, including playing in an exhibition with his son and the indoor TGL league.
