Golf fans hoping for a Tiger Woods comeback in 2026 will have to wait even longer. According to reports, the 15-time major champion won't tee off in any of the four major tournaments this year—the Masters, PGA Championship, U.S. Open, or British Open. This marks his second straight year sidelined from the sport's biggest stages.
Woods hasn't competed in a major since 2024, when he struggled through a painful stretch at Augusta National. He shot a career-worst 82 during the final round of the Masters, finishing 10-over par. That tournament followed a series of setbacks, including a DUI arrest in March that prompted him to step away from golf.
A Year of Recovery
In a statement released on March 31, Woods acknowledged the seriousness of his situation. "I am stepping away for a period of time to seek treatment and focus on my health," he said. "This is necessary in order for me to prioritize my well-being and work toward lasting recovery."
Since then, Woods has reportedly completed a rehab stint in Switzerland and returned to Florida. His return to Florida after rehab signaled a new chapter, but it hasn't led to a return to competition. He also missed the 2025 season entirely after undergoing his seventh back procedure.
Major Exemptions and Missed Deadlines
Woods' absence from the 2026 majors stems from a combination of factors. According to Sports Illustrated's Dan Gartland, Woods isn't exempt for the U.S. Open, and he didn't submit an entry for the British Open before the deadline closed last week. He also sat out the Masters and PGA Championship earlier this year.
This isn't the first time Woods has faced a prolonged absence from the majors. Since injuring his right leg in a 2021 car crash, he's competed in only eight major events. He withdrew from two and missed the cut in four, including his last three attempts in 2024.
What's Next for the Legend?
Woods hasn't won a major since his stunning fifth Masters victory in 2019, which moved him within three of Jack Nicklaus's all-time record of 18. That gap now feels wider than ever. With 2026 essentially a write-off, the question of whether Woods will ever add to his legacy looms large.
Despite the setbacks, Woods still has opportunities off the course. He reportedly received an offer to serve as a captain's pick for the 2027 Ryder Cup, a sign that the golf world hasn't given up on him. His 2027 Ryder Cup offer remains on the table, even after his arrest.
For now, Woods' focus remains on personal recovery. His relationship with Vanessa Trump has reportedly remained solid, with the couple supporting each other through his rehab and her own health challenges, including a breast cancer battle.
A Legacy in Limbo
Woods' absence from the majors has left a void in the sport. The 48-year-old has been a fixture at the top of the leaderboard for decades, but his body—and now his personal struggles—have taken a toll. Fans who remember his iconic 2019 Masters win wonder if they'll ever see that magic again.
As the 2026 season unfolds without him, the golf world watches and waits. For now, Tiger Woods is focusing on getting healthier and stronger, hoping to return in a better place—both personally and professionally.
