Gary Player turns 90, Straka skips playoffs for family, and Tiger Woods’ potential Champions Tour debut looms.
The golf world is quietly bracing for one of the most electrifying possibilities: “Tiger Woods is coming back!” Few phrases spark such anticipation. Miller Brady, president of the PGA Tour Champions, confirmed in a Golf Channel interview that preparations are well underway for Woods’ potential debut on the senior circuit in 2026. “Yes, we’re ready. We’re well prepared,” he said, hinting at a year’s worth of planning behind the scenes.
Woods, a 15-time major champion, recently underwent his seventh back surgery, ruling him out of the Hero World Challenge and the PNC Championship. Even a return at the Masters in April seems unlikely. But should he recover, Woods could start a new chapter in his legendary career when he turns 50 on December 30, 2025. A likely debut venue? The 2026 U.S. Senior Open at Scioto, Ohio—where a young Jack Nicklaus once honed his game.
One key factor: carts are allowed on the senior tour, including at senior majors under the Americans with Disabilities Act. For Woods, whose body has endured countless surgeries, this could be a game-changer. The PGA Tour Champions, facing reduced funding from the PGA Tour, would benefit immensely from Woods’ star power and sponsor appeal.
Straka Prioritizes Family Over Playoffs
Sepp Straka has opted out of the DP World Tour playoffs to be with his wife Paige and their newborn son Thomas, who was born prematurely in August and spent two months in neonatal intensive care. The DP World Tour waived its minimum participation requirement, allowing Straka to retain his membership for 2026 despite only two appearances this season. “I need to be in Alabama to support Paige and ensure Thomas gets the best possible start,” Straka said, expressing deep gratitude to the medical teams involved.
Gary Player Slams Ryder Cup Atmosphere
Turning 90 hasn’t mellowed Gary Player. In a candid interview with the Palm Beach Post, the South African legend criticized the Ryder Cup’s recent atmosphere, calling it “the worst event in the world” after incidents at Bethpage Black. He condemned fan behavior and vulgar chants, particularly one aimed at Rory McIlroy. “That woman doesn’t deserve to be called a lady,” he said of a host who led the chant. Player also criticized players’ language, praising only Scottie Scheffler and Tommy Fleetwood for their conduct.
Never shy about his legacy, Player ranked himself third among the greatest golfers, behind Jack Nicklaus and Tiger Woods. “I judge by the record book. That’s all that counts,” he said. “Nicklaus has the best record—period. If Tiger had made the right decisions, he’d be the greatest. But ‘if’ is the worst word in sports.”
DeChambeau Likely to Extend with LIV
Dustin Johnson was the first big name to re-sign with LIV Golf, and Bryson DeChambeau is expected to follow. According to LIV-friendly outlet Flushing It, DeChambeau and LIV are finalizing a contract extension ahead of the 2026 season opener in Riyadh