The GOAT is back”, “Please retire man” – Fans react to Tiger Woods’ back surgery announcement
Fans gave mixed reactions as they learned that US golfer Tiger Woods underwent another back surgery recently. This marked his sixth back-related procedure in the last 10 years. As per his X (formerly Twitter) account, the golfing legend has undergone a “micro-depression surgery of the lumbar spine for nerve impingement in the lower back”.
Woods is one of the greatest players the sport has ever seen. However, he has been absent from competitive golf for quite some time. Injuries have kept him away from the game over the past few years.
The latest surgery took place in West Palm Beach and his surgeon deemed the operation successful. While Tiger Woods is looking forward to getting back to “normal life activities, including golf,” the future of his professional career is still unclear.
“The surgery went smoothly. I’m hopeful this will help alleviate the back spasms and pain I was experiencing throughout most of the 2024 season. I look forward to tackling this rehab and preparing myself to get back to normal life activities, including golf,” Woods said in a statement.
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The news of his surgery drew mixed reactions from fans. While some fans were excited and hoped to see him return to the greens, others believed it was time the 15-time Major champion drew the curtains on his illustrious career.
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“Tiger will surprise some people when he comes back healthy. It is unbelievable how much he has had to battle with his body during his career. It is hard to imagine how much better his record would be if he did not have all of these issues,” one fan commented.
“Tiger, get well soon. The game of golf awaits for you.” another added.
“Golf without Tiger is boring. Get well soon,” one fan wrote.
One fan may have reminisced Woods’ historic 2019 Masters win, as they wrote:
“Dude winning the Masters this year. Heard it here first.”
“Green jacket 2025,” another added.
While wishes for a speedy recovery poured in from all corners, some fans felt he should drop the towel now.
“Please retire man. You’ve done enough for the game,” a fan wrote.
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“Time to put away the bag and enjoy retirement before you do irreparable harm. Best of luck with recovery.” one fan expressed.
“Tiger and Tua battling for who should retire first,” another said.
One fan shared their admiration, writing:
“Thanks for the memories Tiger. If this is the end, what a thrill ride you gave us all. Get well soon.”
“God I love Tiger but man it seems like surgery after surgery is taking more away from him than it’s giving… I feel like there’s more important things in his life at this point than playing golf four times a year,” another fan wrote.
“God help Tiger – he should now move to the TV booth or buy a local nursing home,” another added.
Whether Tiger Woods returns to competitive golf is left to be seen.
Tiger Woods suffered a car crash in 2021. He incurred several injuries, including one to his right leg. It was immediately operated upon and was so serious that doctors even considered amputating his leg.
His game seemed to have been considerably affected after the crash. In November 2021, Woods said although he would continue playing a few events every year, he would no longer be a full-time professional golfer.
In 2024, the 48-year-old participated in only the Major tournaments. He hosted and took part in the 2024 Genesis Invitational but withdrew after the first round, owing to illness. Woods finished 60th at the 2024 Masters after registering his highest score ever in a Major championship. In the rest of the tournaments — the PGA Championship, Open Championship, and the US Open — he was cut after the second round.
Fans are still hopeful for a 2019 Masters-esque return from Tiger Woods. He probably shares a similar sentiment as he mentioned the hopes to return to golf, whether he meant professionally or not will be seen in time.
At the moment, he is involved in discussions between the PGA Tour officials and PIF representatives about receiving financial backing for the PGA Tour Enterprises. Woods is on the policy board of the PGA Tour regarding a potential deal with rival league LIV Golf.
Fans might be able to catch a glimpse of Tiger Woods at the 2024 Hero World Challenge in the Bahamas, hosted by him. It will be held in mid-December.
