So, Tiger Woods has finally announced his comeback date. And even though the Masters is the perfect place to do so for various reasons, I must admit I am a little surprised.
I really thought he'd play at least one tournament — even if it meant representing Isleworth against Lake Nona in the friendly Tavistock Cup — before heading out for a Major. But I guess if there is one player who can come out of the cold and contend in a Major without even playing one practice round, it has to be Tiger.
Why is the Masters the best place to make his comeback? The whole tournament was created by the legendary Bobby Jones with respect for the game, and players, foremost on his mind. You may have your personal opinions about Tiger's off course activities, but you cannot deny his status as a player, and that's the only thing that matters at Augusta National.
More importantly, Tiger is familiar with every nook and cranny of the Augusta National golf course. Unlike any other Major, where the venue keeps rotating, the Masters has a permanent home, Of course, the fact he has won there before, always helps. If you have done well at a golf course, it just adds to your confidence level.
Will Tiger win on his comeback? I can assure you there is not one player who thinks he can't. I am sure he must have planned his return in such a manner he is at least 80 to 90 per cent near his best game. And we all know Tiger at 80 per cent is better than most others.
I think Tiger's biggest challenge will be the customary Tuesday morning press conference. It will be the first time he has taken questions directly after what happened last year. How he handles that situation is going to be key to his rehabilitation as a golfer.
Personally, I am trying to become a part of what should be the most-watched golf tournament in the history of the game. For that to happen, I need to have a good finish at this week's Transitions Championship at Innisbrook. Let's see how it goes.
