Where is the GOAT headed next? PGA Tour? PGA Tour Champions? Majors and Senior Majors? Many questions and it’s complicated.
Where is Tiger heading? This question has been asked nearly every year since 2009, from personal issues to physical setbacks. In 2019, he proved doubters wrong with his fifth Masters win and 15th major, but the tragic car accident on February 23, 2021, nearly ended his career, seriously injuring his right leg.
Turning 50: Eligibility and What It Means for Woods
Eldrick Tont Woods turned 50 on December 30, 2025, making him eligible to play on the PGA Tour Champions, the senior tour. That means he can ride in a cart without special permission, opening a new path in his career, but physical challenges remain significant.
\”It would be exciting to see Tiger play on the Champions Tour, and I believe he will compete in several events. He’s a very exciting personality and it would be fantastic for him and our tour. I think all the players would welcome him.\”
Bernhard Langer
Boost for PGA Tour Champions Amid Challenges
Tiger’s presence promises to elevate the senior tour’s profile, increasing TV ratings and sponsor interest, which are crucial as funding and media coverage have recently declined under new management focused on commercial interests.
PGA Tour Champions President Miller Brady emphasized that preparations are in place for Tiger’s participation, including logistics and fan accommodations. However, complications remain, including conflicting tournament schedules and media attention.
\”At every meeting, we hope he’ll play. We agree he might play about five tournaments, and if we get ten, that would be fantastic. We also hope to be informed earlier than Friday night before events if he does.\”
Steve Flesch, Player Director PGA Tour Champions
Endorsements, Scheduling Conflicts, and Senior Majors Focus
Woods recently became a brand ambassador for Insperity, which sponsors a senior event held concurrently with a major PGA Tour tournament, highlighting potential conflicts. Media would likely shift focus dramatically if Tiger competes in senior events.
Woods is expected to target senior majors such as the US Senior Open, where a win would make him the first golfer to claim the US Junior, US Amateur, US Open, and US Senior Open titles. However, these four-day tournaments pose physical challenges, as carts are not automatically allowed, and Woods would have to rely on disability accommodations, contrasting with his previous stance on medical exemptions.
\”I told him, please come and play, and I think it can only be good for him. He’ll get into golf shape. You can ride a cart without shame, and if anyone deserves to, it’s him. He can get back on track with us.\”
Ernie Els
Ultimately, Woods will only compete if confident in his ability to contend and win