Rory McIlroy has predicted that Tiger Woods will not make his return to competitive golf in 2025 after his Achilles tendon surgery.
According to McIlroy he believed Woods will pllay competitive golf again in 2026.
Woods remains absent from official competitions after his previous appearance in the 2019 British Open.
His professional athletics career has been marked by numerous health incidents that include three back surgeries in 2017 and left knee treatment in 2019 as well as microdisectomy and post-car-crash surgical procedures on his back and ankle and right leg in 2021.
“It sucks. He doesn’t have much luck when it comes to injuries and his body,” McIlroy said.
“Obviously, he was trying to ramp up to get ready for Augusta, and Achilles surgeries obviously aren’t fun. Hoping he’s in good spirits and hoping he’s doing OK.”
Woods announced he will skip all tournaments in 2025. But, McIlroy has believed Woods’ ability to persevere because he understands golf remains his lifetime objective even after facing this setback.
“We obviously won’t see him play golf this year, and hopefully we see him maybe play in 2026. He’ll try,” McIlroy said.
“I know he’ll try. But that’s a question for him, not for me. I obviously don’t know what’s in his head. But judging by prior behavior, he’ll definitely try.” McIlroy added
Woods on Tuesday had surgery after injuring his Achilles tendon during home training exercises but he has not disclosed his projected golf comeback date.
“My heart is really not into practicing [for The Players] right now. I’ve had so many other things to do with the Tour and trying to do other things.” Woods said.
“I am back home now and plan to focus on my recovery and rehab, thank you for all the support.” he added.
