The ‘rumour’ Hideki Matsuyama has heard about Tiger Woods ahead of the Genesis Invitational at Torrey Pines

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Hideki Matsuyama has heard a rumour about Tiger Woods after the 15-time major winner pulled out of the Genesis Invitational.

The 49-year-old rarely misses the third Signature Event of the season, which is typically hosted at Riviera Country Club in Los Angeles. But after the devastating wildfires, Torrey Pines is the venue for this year’s edition.

Woods was scheduled to tee it up in San Diego, but after the sad passing of his mother, Kultida, Woods released a statement confirming he was not ready to compete against the world’s best players at Torrey Pines.

Tiger has consistently stated that he will only return to the course once he feels his game is in good enough shape actually to contend, not just make up the numbers.

Hideki Matsuyama hears Tiger Woods’ rumour

Matsuyama, who won the 2024 Genesis Invitational at Riviera, has revealed that he’s heard Woods could still be in attendance at Torrey Pines on Sunday afternoon.

“Obviously, I’m looking forward to defending my title this week, and I’ve heard some rumour that Tiger might be here this Sunday, so hopefully, I get that trophy and get that picture with him this week,” Matsuyama said.

The Japanese star did not get a picture with Woods 12 months ago after the 15-time major winner withdrew from the tournament due to illness. However, Matsuyama revealed that Woods met with him at the 2024 Masters to congratulate him on his victory.

“So I met with Tiger at the Masters, and he gave me a big smile and congratulated me, so that kind of made it extra special, that winning at Riviera,” Matsuyama added.

• READ MORE: The 26-year-old record Tiger Woods holds at Torrey Pines after he confirms his withdrawal from the Genesis Invitational

Hideki Matsuyama’s 2025 PGA Tour record

Matsuyama could be one to watch at the first major of the year. The 32-year-old has played five PGA Tour events in 2025 and hasn’t missed a cut thus far.

Matsuyama secured a record-breaking win at The Sentry and also finished in a tie for 16th at the Sony Open in Hawaii. What’s more, the former Masters champ also ended the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am and WM Phoenix Open well under par.

During the Farmers Insurance Open at Torrey Pines, Matsuyama finished week one over and was in a tie for 32nd.

Matsuyama is currently sixth on the PGA Tour in total strokes gained (1.7), and all aspects of his game appear solid.