Golf chief provides sad Tiger Woods comeback update: "I'd be super surprised"

The chief executive of the United States Golf Association says Tiger Woods is unlikely to play the U.S. Open and the senior version of the major this summer. 

Mike Whan told Sports Illustrated that he would be "super surprised" if Woods, 50, makes an appearance at Shinnecock Hills next month and at Scioto Country Club in early May. 

In March, Woods was intensifying his preparations for the 2026 Masters, but his campaign was derailed when he was arrested and charged with driving under the influence after colliding with a truck and rolling his Land Rover near his Florida home.

The 82-time PGA Tour winner - who has pleaded not guilty - announced that he was going to step away from the sport to seek treatment and is currently in Switzerland undergoing an intensive, 90-day rehab programme.

"I know and understand the seriousness of the situation I find myself in today," Woods said. 

"I am stepping away for a period of time to seek treatment and focus on my health. 

"This is necessary in order for me to prioritize my well-being and work toward lasting recovery.

"I'm committed to taking the time needed to return in a healthier, stronger and more focused place, both personally and professionally. 

"I appreciate your understanding and support, and ask for privacy for my family, loved ones and myself at this time."

It's unclear when the 15-time major winner will tee up again but Whan doesn't believe that Woods will play in the U.S. Open or U.S. Senior Open. 

"I'd be super surprised," Whan told SI when asked about Woods' chances to compete. 

"It would be wonderful for the event, and if he was ready, it would be wonderful for him." 

Whan added: "Obviously what he's going through is much bigger than golf. 

"He's proven before that when he puts his mind to something, he's going to be great at it. 

"I'm sure he has a lot of years to play USGA championships. I don’t think he's going to play in any 2026 USGA championship. 

"If he ends up playing in USGA championships, great. 

"But when I think of Tiger, my friend, that's not really what's important to me right now."

If Woods were to play the 2026 U.S. Open then he would need a special invitation as he is not eligible. 

He accepted one in 2024 when the major was held at Pinehurst, but missed the cut. 

This is the first year he is eligible to play the senior golf after he turned 50 last December. 

The USGA previously confirmed Woods registered to play the senior U.S. Open but would make a gametime decision over whether or not to compete. 

Woods has not played competitively since the 2024 Open Championship at Royal Troon. 

He played in one TGL match in March, which led many to believe he was gearing up to make yet another comeback to the sport. 

Woods had two surgeries in 2025. Last March, Woods needed surgery to repair a ruptured Achilles tendon. 

In October, he had a lumbar disc replacement in his lower back. It was the seventh back surgery of his illustrious career. 

Woods has won the U.S. Open three times (2000, 2002, 2008).