(CNN)He will? did that win It’s the question on everyone’s lips.
The potential of Tiger Woods teeing off in Thursday’s opening round of the 2022 Masters has golf burning with excitement and a dramatic comeback lies ahead.
The 15-time major champion has been away from competitive golf for over a year after sustaining serious leg injuries in a car accident in February 2021.
But Woods, 46, has been spotted at a few practice rounds at the Augusta National, including one on Monday, which has only fueled rumors of a comeback.
One of his playing partners seems sure of what will happen on Thursday.
“I’m hoping Tuesday and Wednesday will keep everything going and I’m sure he’ll open it up on Thursday,” Fred Couples told reporters. “It’s not shocking because he’s the best player that has ever played.”
“If he can walk around here in 72 holes, he will fight. He’s too good.”
And 2021 FedEx Cup champion Patrick Cantlay says Wood’s return is the “greatest thing” for golf.
“He’s a good example that life isn’t always perfect and that’s why it’s really exciting to see him at his heights,” he told media.
“And so I hope he can serve and play well this week and obviously that’s what’s best for our sport. There’s definitely a different feeling in tournaments where he serves.”
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In last year’s car accident in Los Angeles, Woods suffered open comminuted fractures affecting his right tibia and fibula, the two long bones just below the knee.
He admitted in February this year that he was “frustrated” with his recovery and acknowledged he will no longer be able to play a full PGA Tour calendar.
One who knows a thing or two about coming back from serious injuries is four-time Major winner Brooks Koepka.
The 31-year-old has endured his own share of injury woes and has missed a significant amount of time in recent years due to surgery and rehab.
And Koepka, coming into the 2022 Masters as one of the favorites for the green jacket, said he understood what Woods could be going through.
“I was in something like his shoes two weeks after surgery last year. This place is not exactly an easy walk,” he told the media. “I understand what he’s dealing with. It will be difficult. But if anyone can do it, it’s him.”
Koepka added: “I’m glad he’s getting healthier and able to play golf… we need him, the game needs him, everyone needs him, the fans need him, all that stuff. But at the end of the day it’s all just out here to compete. I’m worried about myself and I’m sure everyone else is worried about themselves.
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