Tiger concerned but excited
Tiger Woods is readying himself for a busy playing schedule ahead of the 2017 Masters in April.
The former world number one made a long-awaited return to golf at the Hero World Challenge in the Bahamas late last year, where he showed glimpses of his old self.
Now, Woods will tee off at this week’s Farmers Insurance Open, an event where he holds a number of records. The seven-time winner shares the course record at 22 under with George Burns.
A potential four rounds this week is not a big deal for the 41-year-old, but Woods tees off three times in February – in Dubai, Los Angeles and Palm Beach in Florida.
While Woods admits the workload on his back is a concern, he is confident his body is ready.
"That is a concern, no doubt about it, but I'm also looking forward to it," the 14-time major winner told Yahoo Sports.
"I've sat out long enough here. Got my body in a pretty good state where I feel I can handle that workload. But I still gotta go out there and do it.
"Feeling good about it and doing it is two totally different things."
When quizzed about the 2017 Masters – which would be his first major since missing the cut at the 2015 PGA Championship – Woods offered some commitment.
"I'd love to play," he added.
"I'd love to win. I've won it four times. Hopefully, I can add a fifth. If my back feels good, I know I can prepare, I know I can play. I know how to shoot scores.
"But I need to have my health in a state where I can prepare to get my game ready to play at an elite level."
Needless to say, plenty eyes will be on Woods when he tees off at the 2017 Farmers Insurance Open at Torrey Pines on Thursday.
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