After Tiger Woods’ withdrawal from the Masters due to a flare-up of his ongoing plantar fasciitis, the question about whether he should retire from playing golf has resurfaced.
Tiger Woods is one of the greatest golfers of all time, with 82 PGA Tour wins, tied with Sam Snead, and 15 major titles. He is known for his fierce competitiveness, and his 2008 U.S. Open victory at Torrey Pines, where he won on a left leg with two stress fractures and a torn ACL, is still remembered as one of the most remarkable feats in golf history.
Throughout his career, Woods has faced many injuries and personal problems, including back and knee surgeries, and a 2021 car crash that almost ended his life. His most recent setback is plantar fasciitis, a painful condition that affects the heel of the foot, which forced him to withdraw from the Masters after just seven holes.
Should Tiger Retire?
The question about whether Tiger Woods should retire from golf is complex and emotional. Fans love to see him play, and his presence in tournaments often raises the interest and TV ratings. However, they also hate seeing him suffer and become a shell of his old self. Woods’ own determination to keep playing despite his injuries and age is also a factor that needs to be considered.
Breaking Sam Snead’s PGA Tour Wins
One record that Woods has a realistic shot at breaking is Sam Snead’s 82 PGA Tour wins. Woods is currently tied with Snead and could surpass him with one more win. However, with the top players in the game being healthy and very good, it is unclear whether Woods will be able to achieve this goal.
Tying Jack Nicklaus’ Major Wins
Tiger Woods‘ current number of major wins is 15, three short of Jack Nicklaus’ record of 18. While Woods shocked the world by winning the 2019 Masters after his personal and injury problems, it is unlikely that he will be able to win three more majors to tie Nicklaus. Woods is older than Nicklaus was when he won his 18th, and he has a long history of injuries to overcome.
Playing on the Senior Tour
One possibility for Tiger Woods’ future in golf is to play on the senior tour, also known as the PGA Tour Champions. Nicklaus has recently said that Woods “wants to play the senior tour,” and Woods himself has hinted at the possibility of playing on the tour in three years, when he would be eligible. This option would allow Woods to continue playing golf without the physical stress of walking long courses, as the senior tour allows the use of carts.
Should he retire? Whatever his decision, Woods’ presence in golf has been and will continue to be a significant influence, and his future in golf could be a shot in the arm for the senior tour.
Learn more about Tiger Woods’ withdrawal from his 25th Masters: