Golfers React to Tiger Woods' Absence from The Masters

The golf world is abuzz with news of Tiger Woods' decision to step away from the sport, with many players offering their thoughts on his absence from The Masters. Despite not competing, Woods has dominated pre-tournament headlines, with some players expressing mixed views on his struggles. The former world No 1 has been open about his health issues, including multiple back surgeries and an operation on his Achilles, as well as his recent car accident and subsequent decision to seek treatment. Jason Day, who has often spoken about Woods' influence on his career, admitted it's 'difficult' to see his 'hero' go through tough times. 'He's not immune to struggles just because he can hit a golf ball really well,' Day said. 'He's had 25 to 30 surgeries. When you're going through that many procedures, it's painful coming out of those procedures.' Day added that he believes some people want Woods to fail, while others want him to succeed. 'It's really difficult for me to go through that and watch him, and I know that he's getting the help now, which is good. I'm just hoping he comes out on the other side and is better.' Other players, including Patrick Reed and Justin Rose, have also offered their support to Woods, acknowledging the impact his absence has on the game. 'Everyone is probably in the same boat, that they're just very grateful that he's okay and that everyone else that was involved is okay,' Reed explained. 'Hopefully he's able to get a speedy recovery and get back here to golf as fast as he can.' Rose noted that Woods and Phil Mickelson, who is also missing from The Masters, are 'titans of the game' and their absence is felt. 'Whether they're 1,000 or 500 in the world or whatever current rankings may be, their stature is way more elevated than that in the game of golf and always will be.' Woods has only played in 11 official tournaments since November 2020 and has set no target for his next possible comeback. However, many players are hopeful that he will return to the sport soon. 'He's such a legend in this game, somebody I looked up to,' Harris English said. 'Watching him win around this place in 1997 is kind of the reason I started getting into golf.' Two-time Masters champion Bubba Watson added, 'I couldn't care less about his golf. Anybody that's struggling with anything, I feel for him because I've gone through a lot of mental stuff. So yeah, I always pull for him.'