Were you also disappointed when Tiger Woods withdrew from his highly anticipated return at the Genesis Invitational? You’re not alone. Fans have been waiting to see him back on the course since last year, and just when it seemed like the wait was over, it wasn’t. Looking back, 2024 wasn’t exactly a year to remember for Woods. Likewise, he practically disappeared from the greens after missing the cut at the U.S. Open in August.

Turns out, he underwent his sixth back surgery in September, followed by months of recovery. Fans hoped for his usual Hero World Challenge appearance, but he was only there as a host. Finally, in December, he teed it up at the PNC Championship with his son, Charlie, finishing runner-up. That was the last time he played an actual event.

Heading into 2025, Woods technically returned to competition—but indoors—with his TGL debut. While it was great to see him swing a club, it wasn’t quite the same. Fans were eager for his real return to the PGA Tour, and the Genesis Invitational was supposed to be it. But heartbreak struck. Woods withdrew following the passing of his mother, Kultida. It’s an understandable situation. 

So, what now? When will he finally tee it up again? Well, don’t get too excited just yet. While Woods initially sounded optimistic about returning soon, his latest comments suggest otherwise.

For context, on Sunday, before his latest TGL match, Woods seemed optimistic when discussing his return, saying: “My goal was to play more and I haven’t played. Got to work on that. This process was unexpected. I’ll get back after it and look forward to playing some bigger events.”

But by Tuesday, following his team’s Jupiter Links, loss to the New York Golf Club in their TGL match, his demeanor had shifted. When asked if next week was a consideration, Woods responded: “I really haven’t thought about golf, so I don’t think I’m going to be thinking about it for just a little bit here.”

Despite initially expressing his intention to play more, Woods doesn’t seem ready just yet. His return remains uncertain, and, for now, fans will have to wait a little longer – again. 

What if Tiger Woods changes his mind and where could he play next?

Yes, we know he said he won’t be thinking about golf for a while. But let’s say Woods does decide to tee it up sooner than expected. Where might we see him next? One option—though an unexpected one—could be the Cognizant Classic in the Palm Beaches (formerly the Honda Classic). Woods has played at PGA National before, but not since 2018. So, a return there would be a surprise.

A more likely landing spot? The Arnold Palmer Invitational. Tiger Woods has won at Bay Hill a staggering eight times, making it a natural place for a potential comeback. Another possibility is The Players Championship, where he’s a two-time winner. But the question remains: Will he play in any of these before The Masters?

Skipping straight to Augusta wouldn’t be shocking. But history shows Woods likes to get some tournament play before a major. With five Green Jackets to his name, it’s safe to assume he’d want to be as prepared as possible.

And if fans are just looking for a glimpse of him, there’s always TGL action. Woods’ team, Jupiter Links, will compete on February 25 against The Bay and March 4 against Atlanta Drive. It’s not quite the same as seeing him walk the fairways, but for now, it’s something.