The 15-time major champion has emerged victorious in four FedEx Cup Playoff events. Only Dustin Johnson (6) and Rory McIlroy (5) have achieved more victories than the 48-year-old. Since the inception of the playoffs in 2007, Woods has claimed the title of FedEx Cup champion twice. Only Rory McIlroy (3) has more FedEx Cup champion titles than him (3).
Despite his illustrious career, Tiger Woods will not be participating in the upcoming TPC Southwind event. In fact, the 82-time PGA Tour winner has never competed in the first FedEx Cup event since it was rebranded as the St.Jude Championship. In its previous incarnation as the Northern Trust, Woods has participated 11 times, securing two runner-up finishes.
Nevertheless, since his near-fatal car accident, Woods has rarely participated in regular season events. Consequently, his rankings in the FedEx Cup have declined. This year, the former world number one is ranked 223rd in the FedEx Cup standings. Of greater significance, Woods appears to be conserving his energy exclusively for the major tournaments. Is it reasonable to expect his return to the FedEx Cup Playoffs in the near future?
The 15-time major champion hinted that the Open Championship would mark his final competitive appearance this season. Staying true to his word, Tiger Woods confirmed from Royal Troon that he will not be competing until the PNC Championship with his son, Charlie. He jokingly referred to it as his ‘fifth major’. Following that, the Hero World Challenge in the Bahamas will take place – an exclusive tournament hosted by Woods at his Albany resort.
However, it is worth noting that Tiger Woods will be eligible to participate in all the Signature events starting next year. Recently, the PGA Tour board agreed to grant a lifetime exemption to the 48-year-old, acknowledging his impact and accomplishments over the past three decades. Nevertheless, it remains to be seen how much of that privilege Tiger Woods will take advantage of. By skipping regular events in hopes of avoiding injuries during the major tournaments, Woods has admitted that his competitive edge has been dulled.
Woods aptly described it as a ‘pick your poison’ moment. If the seasoned golfer can shorten his recovery time after each tournament, and if his body allows him to compete twice a month, then Tiger Woods and his fans can realistically entertain the possibility of him appearing in the FedEx Cup playoffs.
Photo from Tiger Woods Instagram
