Tiger Woods looks promising in return to action at Torrey Pines

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  • While he undoubtedly found himself in more pressured situations during his trophy-laden career, Tiger Woods’ return to action at Torrey Pines last weekend would have been a painstaking challenge in itself.

    Although he played in the Bahamas in December, Woods’ real litmus test was at the Farmers Insurance Open, as he stepped out for his first PGA Tour event in 12 months since returning from his fourth back surgery.

    Golf had plenty of significant stories last week – from Rory McIlroy’s mini-comeback to Jon Rahm’s bid for the world No1 spot, and even the six-hole play-off eventually won by Jason Day – but none were more captivating than Tiger’s return to competitive action in California.

    Despite playing the best part of his four rounds out of the rough, the 42-year-old still managed a formidable top-25 finish – his most promising result since finishing in a tie for third at the Wyndham Championship in 2015.

    A three-under par 285 may not capture the attention of many golf fans, but on a tough course like Torrey Pines, Tiger’s formidable finish represents another significant tale on his recovery to full-fitness.

    Although he missed 30 greens in regulation and posted 11 bogeys, Woods looked impressive when recovering to hit the ball on to the green.

    It was the third time since August 2013 that he finished all four rounds at par or better in an official PGA Tour event.

    Individual parts of his game like his ball striking need improving – he hit only 17 fairways – but it still proved to be a solid return for Woods.

    His wedge and short iron game showed flashes of class – and if he can tighten up these areas further then it could represent a hugely positive year for the 14-time major winner. For a man who has been curtailed by injuries and given his tournament rustiness, his play around the green and putting were superb.

    But no matter what he achieves going forward, he will always be Tiger Woods. He will always be that sports star who elevated golf to new heights. He will always be that guy who won the US Open by 15 shots in 2000. There will be greater players to hit the ball than Tiger, but none will leave a greater legacy on the game.

    Woods’ next tournament will be at the Genesis Open on February 15 – and will generate the same attention when he steps out alongside Dustin Johnson, Jordan Spieth and Rory McIlroy. It’s difficult to know where his comeback is going, but as a fan, it is hard not to be in awe.

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