Hall of famer Tiger Woods generated a buzz on Monday after he was seen practicing at Augusta National. The site is the venue for The Masters, which takes place this week. While Woods has not officially said that he would be present at the event, his presence at the site on Monday was enough to make fans hopeful that he might turn up.

Woods has not played in any professional tournament since surviving a ghastly motor accident last year February. He teamed up with his son Charlie at the PNC Championship last December, and they came second. At the event, Woods had to move around in a caddy as he was not strong enough to walk or stand for long. Recovery has not been easy for Woods, and he revealed that amputation was once considered while he was at the hospital.

His presence at Augusta on Monday not only thrilled fans but also his peers. Six-time PGA Tour winner, Patrick Cantlay, described Woods’ presence as inspirational: “I think seeing him being so far superior to almost any golfer since (Jack) Nicklaus. Naturally, you become inspired by that type of performance and dedication to the mastery of anything.” On the possibility of Woods returning, Webb Simpson was quick to declare: “As a player, we love it. I think we’re all Tiger fans.” He said he had learned his lesson not to count Woods out as he would always come back. Just last week, North Irishman Rory McIlroy said that Woods like to “prove people wrong” as he was sure to come back when least expected.

The last time Woods was at The Masters was in 2020, just one year after winning it at age 43. While it is almost impossible that he might win it if he competes this year, just seeing him at the event alone would be nothing short of great.

Written by: Leon Osamor