Tiger Woods Returns in Genesis Invitational: Players React to Next Week’s 15-Time Major Champion
Not since the Zozo Championship 2020, Tiger Woods has competed in a regular PGA Tour event. That will change next week at the Genesis Invitational 2023 when the 47-year-old announced on Friday getting him on the field for the tournament. Having earned the same PGA Tour-designated spot as the 2023 WM Phoenix Open, many of those in the field at TPC Scottsdale will make the trip to Los Angeles over the weekend and reunite with the 15-year-old major champion. times at the Riviera Country Club .
“Is he playing Riv?” asked Jon Rahm, genuinely surprised. “Great… After everything he’s been through. It’s unbelievable that he keeps trying. Talked to him in the Bahamas. Everything he got in his leg and then you. more plantar fasciitis. I really sympathize with him in that sense. But I know he will continue to do everything he can to try to win more tournaments. Maybe a second win. That’s 83. Hopefully, he’s clearly in his mind an expert, isn’t he? So it’s a real honor for all of us. “Golf makes the tournament even better. So I hope he can play comfortably and I hope he can play well.”
Woods has been stuck on 82 wins since his win at the aforementioned Zozo Championship. Accompanying Sam Snead on most wins in PGA Tour history, adding a trip into the winner’s circle is definitely high on his to-do list. While his history at the Riviera Country Club suggests it may not be next week, his involvement is still encouraging for future prospects.
“It’s amazing. I imagine we’ll carry him down the hill on the 1st and up there on the 18th. That won’t bother anyone,” said Genesis Invitational 2021 winner Max Homa. “But it’s amazing. I’m really glad he’s back. I think we’re honored every time he plays now. Obviously we don’t know his schedule. Yes looks like he’s going to try to play pro. So it’s great that he’s playing a Tour event. Especially his event. One of my favorite events. So , I’d love to see him back out there. Yeah, he’s always been brilliant. You never know what he’s going to do. So it’s going to be fun to watch him play some golf.”
Woods played only nine innings in 2022 between masters, the PGA Championship and the Open. Scheduled to compete in the Hero World Challenge this past December, he eventually had to withdraw before the tournament due to plantar fasciitis. Staying at the estate, Woods interacted with competitors in charity competitions earlier in the week and came across one of the sport’s brightest stars Tom Kim.
“I think it’s great for the game,” said Kim, 20. “As a player, even I am a huge fan of Tiger, it will be great to have him on the pitch. Hopefully I can improve myself and hopefully playing with him. if given the chance…I’ve played a few events where he’s been, but never near where he tees off.”
