Will Tiger Woods play in the Hero World Challenge? Health concerns cloud his December return

Tiger Woods has another chance to return to competitive golf, but his participation in the 2026 Hero World Challenge remains uncertain. The tournament, which he hosts in the Bahamas, will run from December 3 to 6 and feature seven of the world's top 10 golfers. Woods is not among the 17 players announced so far, yet three exemption spots remain open. That leaves the door ajar for the 15-time major champion if his recovery allows him to compete. After a long stretch away from professional golf, even a small sign of progress has drawn attention to his possible comeback.Tiger Woods' Hero World Challenge comeback depends on his healthWoods has not competed in a professional tournament since missing the cut at the 2024 Open Championship. Since then, his recovery has been marked by several serious setbacks. He ruptured his Achilles tendon in March 2025 and underwent disc replacement surgery in October that year.He returned to action for one TGL match in March 2026, but a rollover car crash days later interrupted any momentum. Woods was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence and later pleaded no contest to a reduced reckless driving charge. He also announced that he would step away to seek treatment and focus on his health.There is still no confirmed date for his return. However, recent activity has renewed interest in his plans. Woods was listed on the roster for the third season of TGL, where he is set to captain Jupiter Links Golf Club. He was also seen hitting balls during a junior clinic at Pebble Beach last week.Those appearances offer signs of activity, but they do not confirm that he is ready for tournament golf. Woods has previously used a tournament exemption to enter his own Hero World Challenge, so one of the remaining spots could provide a route back if he feels prepared.Hero World Challenge 2026 field includes Scottie SchefflerThe confirmed field already features several major names. World No. 1 Scottie Scheffler will lead the group, alongside Matt Fitzpatrick and Cameron Young. Chris Gotterup, Russell Henley, Xander Schauffele and Sam Burns are also among the players announced.Other confirmed competitors include J.J. Spaun, Si Woo Kim, Hideki Matsuyama, Justin Thomas, Tom Kim and Akshay Bhatia. Three tournament exemptions remain unfilled.If Woods returns, he is likely to follow a limited schedule rather than attempt a full season. In 2024, he played the four major championships and the Genesis Invitational, where he serves as tournament host. Now eligible for the Champions Tour at age 50, he also has another possible option.The Hero World Challenge could offer a relatively manageable setting for Woods to test his game. For now, though, his health will determine whether fans see him compete in the Bahamas this December.Stay updated with the latest Asian Games 2026 news, check the Asian Games medal tally and complete Asian Games schedule.Get the latest Sports News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.