Tiger Woods Returns with a Slow yet Encouraging Start

After three months spent recovering from back surgery, Tiger Woods returned to the PGA Tour yesterday at the Quicken Loans National in Bethesda, Maryland.

The former number 1 got off to a shaky start, carding straight bogeys over his first two holes.  But after an extended break from competitive play some rustiness is to be expected.

“I think the hard part was just getting into the rhythm of playing competitively,” said Woods after yesterday’s round.  “Adrenaline is rushing, and I hit the ball further out here than I do at home.  Try to get the numbers, try to get the feels.  Didn’t start happening until midway through my front nine.  It unfortunately took a while to get the feel for it.”

After 12 holes the Nike player was at 6-over but soon found his groove on the back nine.  Where three birdies helped Woods close the gap and eventually finish his first round at 3-over 74.

“The more I played, the more I felt comfortable about shot selections, my sight lines, all different things,” said Woods.

As for his back, the Nike player states it’s not an issue.

Telling reporters, “No twinges, no nothing.  It felt fantastic.  That’s one of the reasons why I let go on those tee shots.  I hit it pretty hard out there.”

Woods’ immense driving ability was his biggest asset yesterday.  Armed with his Nike VRS Covert 2.0 Tour Driver, Woods showed incredible strength on the fairways.  Proving his back surgery hasn’t hampered his game too much.

With playing partners Jason Day and Jordan Spieth not having much more luck at Congressional yesterday, shooting 73 and 74 respectively, Woods isn’t out of the running yet.  A solid round today could have the Nike golfer making his first cut.

Whether or not that happens, one thing is certain, Woods brings the crowds and any participation from him is better than none for fans, the PGA tour and even fellow players.