Tiger Woods’ last PGA Tour victory came during the 2019 ZOZO Championship in Japan.
Woods, who had won his 15th major at Augusta National just months before, finished three shots clear of Hideki Matsuyama to claim his 82nd PGA Tour title and tie Sam Snead’s record.
Since the event at Accordia Narashino Country Club five years ago, the 48-year-old has been plagued by injury, although Woods is set to return for the TGL, which starts in January 2025.
Xander Schauffele played alongside Woods during the 2019 edition of the ZOZO, and the two-time major winner has shared what it was like witnessing the all-time great make golfing history.
2019 ZOZO Championship: Xander Schauffele stunned by Tiger Woods crowds
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Schauffele is back in action after the United States Presidents Cup victory, and the 30-year-old was asked about Woods’ victory during his pre-tournament press conference on Tuesday.
“Well, one, he made history by winning, but what I remember honestly is that I sat on the first tee with JT and Rory, and I couldn’t believe how many people were on the property,” Schauffele explained.
“There are some really big names here who pull a really big crowd but Tiger seems to always move the needle the most. It felt special. It felt like a major almost, just because it was ten rows deep on the first hole. It was insane.
“Him winning was obviously really special but he definitely brought a different feel to the tournament on top of the history he made.”
Woods underwent surgery in September and is targeting a return to golf in the new year as he seeks an elusive 83rd PGA Tour victory.
Tiger Woods positive fitness clue after TGL announcement
The golfing world needs Tiger back fit and firing in the 2025 season. The 48-year-old will never reach his previous best, but Woods’ presence at PGA Tour events is required.
Hopefully, after Woods’ TGL fixtures are confirmed, the 15-time major winner will be confident he will be fit and ready to swing a club at the start of the year.
It’s clear that Tiger will never achieve success by playing just the four major championships. He must play at least once a month to ensure he’s at the level required to challenge the best in the world.
Of course, another return from injury is far from ideal, but Tiger’s camp will be hopeful that reducing the spasms and discomfort in his back will benefit him heading into the new season.
What’s more, the TGL could prove to be a gentle start for Woods as he works he way towards a PGA Tour return.
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