Key Takeaways
- USGA CEO Mike Whan doubts Tiger Woods will compete in the 2026 U.S. Open or U.S. Senior Open, saying it would be “super surprised” to see him tee it up this year.
- Woods entered an inpatient treatment facility in April after a March 27 car crash in Florida that led to a DUI charge (he refused a urine test, passed a breathalyzer, and pleaded not guilty).
- Just hours before the accident, the USGA confirmed Woods had registered for the 2026 U.S. Senior Open, a move initially interpreted as a sign he was nearing a competitive comeback.
- Although Woods turned 50 in December 2025 and became eligible for the Senior Open, he has not confirmed whether he will actually play; his registration was described as a procedural step to preserve eligibility.
- Woods has not played a competitive round since the 2023 British Open; he underwent back surgery in October 2024 and tore his Achilles in March 2025, though he did appear in one TGL match in March 2025.
- In a public statement after the crash, Woods said he is stepping away to seek treatment, focus on health, and work toward lasting recovery, emphasizing that his well‑being is his current priority over golf.
Mike Whan, the chief executive of the United States Golf Association, recently told Sports Illustrated that he would be “super surprised” if Tiger Woods appeared at either the 2026 U.S. Open at Shinnecock Hills or the 2026 U.S. Senior Open at Scioto Country Club. Whan acknowledged that Woods’ participation would be a boon for the tournaments and for the golfer himself, but he stressed that the former world No. 1’s current challenges extend far beyond the fairways. “Obviously what he’s going through is much bigger than golf,” Whan said, adding that while Woods has repeatedly shown the ability to excel when he sets his mind to a goal, his immediate focus must be on health and recovery rather than on chasing another USGA championship.
The backdrop to Whan’s skepticism is a troubling incident that occurred on March 27 in Florida. Woods was involved in a two‑vehicle collision that prompted law‑enforcement officials to charge him with driving under the influence after he refused to submit a urine test. He did, however, pass a breathalyzer test and entered a plea of not guilty to the DUI accusation. Just a few hours before the crash, the USGA had announced that Woods had officially registered for the 2026 U.S. Senior Open—a development that, given his recent return‑to‑form speculation, was interpreted by many as a signal that he was preparing to step back onto the competitive stage.
Woods’ registration for the Senior Open carries particular significance because he turned 50 in December 2025, thereby becoming eligible for the championship for the first time. Despite meeting the age requirement, Woods has not yet declared his intention to actually play in the event. A USGA spokesperson clarified in March that Woods had entered the championship “simply to ensure eligibility, but will not make a decision about playing until a later date.” This cautious approach reflects the broader uncertainty surrounding his readiness to compete after a series of physical setbacks.
Since his last competitive appearance at the 2023 British Open at Royal Troon, Woods has endured a spate of injuries. He announced in October 2024 that he had undergone back surgery, following a March 2025 revelation that he had torn his Achilles tendon. The combination of these ailments has kept him away from tournament golf for well over a year. He did make a brief appearance in a TGL match in March 2025, which reignited chatter about a possible comeback, but the subsequent car accident and ensuing legal matters have overshadowed any hopeful narratives.
In the aftermath of the crash, Woods released a statement emphasizing his commitment to personal health. “I am stepping away for a period of time to seek treatment and focus on my health,” he wrote. “This is necessary in order for me to prioritize my well‑being and work toward lasting recovery. I’ve committed to taking the time needed to return to a healthier, stronger and more focused place, both personally and professionally.” The message underscores that, for Woods at this juncture, rehabilitation and mental wellness outweigh the lure of added trophies or ranking points.
Looking ahead, the 2026 U.S. Open is slated for June 15‑21 at Shinnecock Hills Golf Club in New York, while the U.S. Senior Open will run from July 2‑5 at Scioto Country Club in Ohio. Whan’s comments suggest that, barring a dramatic and swift turnaround in Woods’ condition, the golf world is unlikely to see him contend at either of those prestigious USGA events this year. Instead, the focus remains on his recovery journey, with the hope that, when he is ready, he will be able to return to the game he has dominated for decades—not merely for the sake of competition, but as a testament to his resilience and enduring love for golf.