With each passing year, golf legend Tiger Woods‘ retirement edges closer. The 47-year-old is already in the twilight of his storied career. While he may still be eager to continue, the wear and tear he has sustained over the years and the accidents he has suffered away from the course may serve as detrimental to his efforts to keep competing at the game’s highest level. But Woods’ mindset has allowed him to battle all the adversities so far. Yet, by the 15-time major champion’s admission, the end of his time as an active player could be near.

Tiger Woods iterates his Masters approach

Tiger Woods is set to return to one of his favorite hunting grounds in good spirits, having recovered from severe injuries. Ever since the injury in February 2021, he has chosen his events wisely, with an eye on exertion. Woods made his competitive debut this season at the Genesis Open on the PGA Tour, where his caddie revealed that he was trying hard to block out the pain. However, not many would count out the five-time Masters champion at an event where he has made the cut every single time as a professional.

Woods, who last missed the cut at Augusta in 1996 as an amateur, has successfully made it to day 3 on each of his next 22 appearances at the major. He may seek a 23rd in 2023, but another prospect has also crossed his mind. The golfer made his thoughts clear before he tees off at Augusta for the 25th time.

On being asked whether he ever thinks that every appearance at the iconic Augusta National could be his last, the five-time Masters champion took a deep breath and said, “Yes, it has. Last year was kind of, didn’t know if I was gonna play again, at that time. For some reason, everything kind of came together and I kind of pushed through a little bit. I was able to make the cut, which was nice.”

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Tiger Woods knows that time is catching up with him, and, per his comments, he is probably making decisions for the present rather than the future.

Woods will look to appreciate his time at the 2023 Masters Tournament

Despite his setbacks, Tiger Woods has pushed through to make a successful return to the sport. The most inspiring comeback in sports history was written when the golf great triumphed in the 2019 Masters Tournament, which became one of the game’s most beloved moments. Golf fans may also fondly remember the 2005 Masters, specifically his chip on Redbud where the ball stopped on the edge of the hole before rolling in to draw a roar from the crowd.

These are just two of the many special stories Woods has added to the fabled greens of Augusta. As a five-time winner at Augusta National, how many more special moments does he have in him?

“Yeah, I don’t know how many more I have in me. So, just to be able to appreciate the time that I have here and cherish the memories,” Tiger Woods said.

The Masters Tournament commences this week on April 6. Stay tuned to get all the latest updates and inside scoops from the year’s biggest event on EssentiallySports.

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