Gary Player Offers Support to Tiger Woods, Urges Caution Behind the Wheel

Golf legends Gary Player and Jack Nicklaus have paid tribute to Tiger Woods, who is absent from The Masters due to health issues. Woods has been out of the sport since a car crash last month and is currently seeking treatment. Player expressed sympathy for Woods' chronic pain but advised him to stop driving, citing the dangers of driving under the influence of medication. Nicklaus also offered words of encouragement, stating that golf needs Woods and would love to have him back. Augusta National chairman Fred Ridley confirmed the organization's support for Woods' decision to focus on his health and well-being. Woods has only played in 11 official tournaments since November 2020 and has not made a competitive appearance since The Open in July 2024.