Five years after his last major championship win, Tiger Woods announced he is “busting it” in the gym and ready to challenge for the Claret Jug at the British Open at Royal Troon on Thursday.
The 48-year-old dismissed retirement suggestions, having last won a major at the 2019 Masters and his most recent professional victory at the 2019 Zozo Championship.
Woods has faced significant struggles since a 2021 car accident that nearly cost him his right leg. After missing the cut at last month’s US Open, former world number two Colin Montgomerie suggested it might be time for Woods to retire. “There is a time for all sportsmen to say goodbye, but it’s very difficult to tell Tiger it’s time to go,” Montgomerie said. “Obviously, he still feels he can win. We are more realistic.”
In response, Woods stated, “Well, as a past champion, I’m exempt until I’m 60. Colin’s not. He’s not a past champion, so he’s not exempt, so he doesn’t get the opportunity to make that decision. I do. I’ll play as long as I can play and I feel like I can still win the event.” When asked if his belief had wavered during recent struggles, Woods replied, “No.”
Montgomerie responded on X, stating, “If golf writers want my thoughts on Tiger, please ask me directly rather than taking a quote out of context. Wishing Tiger an enjoyable and successful week.”
Despite Woods’ confident statements, he is clearly no longer the dominant player he was for two decades. His chances of returning to form are not helped by the trend of tournaments favouring long drivers, but he believes Royal Troon could work to his advantage.
At Royal Troon, accuracy is more important than distance, which could boost Woods’ chances to make the cut. “The older you get, the less you can carry the ball, but on this course, you can let it roll,” said Woods, a three-time Open winner (2000, 2005, 2006).
He added, “That’s why older champions can still compete here. I’ve been working hard in the gym, and it’s helping my game.”
Woods also expressed confidence in Keegan Bradley as Ryder Cup captain for 2025. “I think Keegan will be a great leader; he’s very passionate about the event,” Woods said. He turned down the captaincy due to time constraints but said he might reconsider in the future: “When I have more time and can fully commit, I’ll put my hat in the ring again.”
