Atlanta, GA …..
Tiger Woods has provided a positive update on his fitness but admits he is “not in golf shape yet” and has no date in mind for a return to competitive action.
Woods has not competed since withdrawing earlier this year ahead of day two of the Dubai Desert Classic.
The 14-time Major winner is currently recovering from a fourth back operation over the past three years but did indicate last month he had been cleared to resume short-game practice.
Woods releaed his latest update on his health and progress via his website.
“As I wrote earlier this summer, I had a few matters to work on with my doctors and I did that,” wrote the 14-time major winner, who will be an assistant captain for the United States in next week’s Presidents Cup.
Tiger Woods last appearance in public and with his children, Samantha and Charlie on hand to see Raphal Nadal win through to Sunday’s final of the U.S. Open.
“I’m feeling good, strong and doing really well.
“About my most recent surgery, it’s nice not to live in pain any more. I’m sleeping better because I don’t have any nerve pain going down my leg. It makes a world of difference.
“I’m starting to hit the ball a little further — 60-yard shots. I have not taken a full swing since my back fusion surgery last April, but continue to chip and putt every day.
“The latter is paying off. Justin Thomas and Rickie Fowler have been dropping by my house for putting contests. Justin also comes over to practice his chipping. It was fun to celebrate his PGA Championship win with him and Rickie, and we had a blast.
“I have my six-month back X-rays coming up. Once my surgeon takes a look, he’ll give me the parameters of what I can do moving forward.
“I’m working out six days a week, alternating between the treadmill, bike riding, swimming and lifting twice a day. My muscle tone is coming back, but I’m not in golf shape yet. That’s going to take time.
Last month Woods pleaded not guilty to driving under the influence, but agreed to enter a rehabilitation programme that would see the charge dropped later this year.
The 41-year-old has agreed to plead guilty to reckless driving at an October 25 hearing and enter a programme for first-time DUI offenders after he was found asleep at the wheel of his car in May.
Woods ended his on-line statment saying: “One thing I’d like to do is recognise my sponsors. They’ve been amazing and I really appreciate them standing by me. No matter what, their support hasn’t waned a bit.
“Finally, thanks to my fans for your patience and encouragement. The last two years have been challenging and I have gone through a great deal. But you have always been there for me and I can’t thank you enough.”
