Where is the GOAT heading now? PGA Tour? PGA Tour Champions? Majors and senior majors? Many questions and it’s complicated.
Quo vadis, Tiger? This question has been asked nearly every year since 2009, following off-course controversies. Then in 2014, after a strong comeback, his back injury sidelined him again. In 2019, with his triumphant fifth Masters win and 15th major, he proved the doubters wrong that ‘they never come back.’
The pivotal moment came on February 23, 2021, when Woods survived a severe car accident in California that nearly cost him his right lower leg and foot, derailing his professional career and raising many questions about his future in golf.
Quo vadis, Tiger: Eligibility for PGA Tour Champions and what it means
Now Eldrick Tont Woods is 50 years old, born December 30, 1975, in Long Beach, California. This milestone makes the 82-time PGA Tour winner automatically eligible for the PGA Tour Champions, allowing him to drive a cart on the fairways without special permission. However, this birthday brings added complexity regarding his physical condition and future plans.
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Woods would be a huge boost for the PGA Tour Champions
The over-50 circuit is excited about the potential addition of Tiger, who would attract fans and boost TV and sponsor interest, which is crucial as the senior tour faces financial challenges under new management focused on commercial interests. The PGA Tour Champions pension fund was unexpectedly cut by two million dollars, and the tour currently has no TV partner, incurring high weekly broadcast costs.
\”It would be exciting to see Tiger play on the Champions Tour, and I’m sure he will play several tournaments. He is a fascinating personality, and it would be fantastic for Tiger and our tour if he competed here. I believe all players would welcome him.\”
Bernhard Langer
\”We are ready for Tiger!\”
Miller Brady, president of the PGA Tour Champions, has assured that preparations are in place for Tiger’s participation, including security and facilities. However, complications remain, including aligning schedules and ensuring early communication from Woods about his starts.
\”At every meeting, we hope he plays. We agree he might play five tournaments, and if we get ten, that would be fantastic. We also hope he informs tournament directors earlier than the Friday before the event.\”
Steve Flesch, Player Director PGA Tour Champions
Both the PGA Tour in Ponte Vedra Beach and the Champions Tour understand Woods’ drawing power but remain cautious about conflicts. The regular