TIGER WOODS INSISTS he has had “no issues at all” with his back during his competitive return at the Hero World Challenge.
The 14-time major champion continued to show good signs in the Bahamas on Friday, shooting a four-under 68 in the second round.
Woods, who is five shots behind leader Charley Hoffman, said his troublesome back was causing no problems in his first tournament in 10 months.
“I proved that the surgery was successful and that the rehab was fantastic,” he said.
“I’ve got a chance to go out there and play competitive golf again, but I’m just getting back. I’ve still got a long way to go.
“I’ve had no issues at all. None. That’s one of the reasons why I played nine straight days back home and down here as well. My body is accustomed to playing.
“Obviously it’s a little different playing tournament golf with tournament speed and hitting certain shots, but the body feels good.”
Woods holed three birdies and an eagle on the front nine, briefly hitting the lead.
The 41-year-old said it was another good day despite struggling with the speed of the greens.
“I think it was successful because I went out there and shot 31 on the front nine. I built upon what I did yesterday, I cleaned it up,” Woods said.
“The only thing I really struggled with today was the speed of the greens. Henrik [Stenson] and I were talking about it all day.
“They seemed to be like a foot faster. I really did struggle at getting the speed. I blew most of them well past the hole and I made a few coming back while I missed my share too.”
The42 has just published its first book, Behind The Lines, a collection of some of the year’s best sports stories. Pick up your copy in Eason’s, or order it here today (€10):
