MIAMI – Tiger Woods is officially entered into the Masters field on March 21, setting himself up to compete in the April 11-14 tournament at Augusta National.
A five-time Masters winner, the American last won what is traditionally the first Major of the calendar year in 2019.
A car crash in February 2021 limited the 15-time Major champion’s career, after he suffered serious damage to his right leg and undergoing multiple operations.
Since his last Masters victory, Woods finished tied for 38th at the 2020 event, did not participate in 2021 because of the accident, finished 47th in 2022, and withdrew because of a foot injury during the third round in 2023.
The 48-year-old played just once this season, at the Genesis Invitational in February, when he withdrew after six holes of the second round with the flu.
The former world No. 1, now ranked 933, has said that he hoped to play one PGA Tour event per month going forward.
While retirement is not yet on Woods’ mind, the intent is crystal clear for South Korean women’s golfer Ryu So-yeon, who announced on the same day that she will step away in April.
The 33-year-old two-time Major winner posted a message on her Instagram page saying she will retire after the year’s first LPGA Major – the Chevron Championship from April 18-21 at Carlton Woods in Houston.
“I wanted to share one of the most significant decisions in my life with all of you today,” Ryu wrote.
“I am not going to lie. I had some hard patches, but despite some of the challenges, I truly enjoyed it all. And more than anything, I feel incredibly grateful for the love and support I’ve received from all of you throughout my career.”
Ryu, who turned pro in 2007 at age 17, has not played in an LPGA event since the BMW Ladies Championship last October and is not scheduled to compete before the Chevron event.
“I’m looking forward to giving a big hug to all of my friends on Tour soon,” she added.
“People often say, ‘Golf is life’, and I couldn’t agree more. I’ve learnt so much through this game – patience, respect for others, endurance and much more. Golf has taught me so many lessons.
“I sincerely appreciate all of your love and support throughout the years. Thank you from the bottom of my heart. I’ll see you guys in Houston.”
Ryu’s first LPGA victory was a Major win at the 2011 US Women’s Open. She has won six LPGA titles in all, including the 2017 ANA Inspiration, which is now the Chevron. REUTERS, AFP
