Tiger Woods Makes Major Announcement Ahead of PGA Championship: “I Know What’s at Stake”

In a surprise move that has sent shockwaves through the world of golf, Tiger Woods made a major announcement today ahead of the highly anticipated PGA Championship at Valhalla Golf Club. Speaking before a packed media room, the 15-time major champion revealed both his commitment to compete at the highest level — and a glimpse into what may be the final chapter of his storied career.

“I know what’s at stake,” Woods said with quiet intensity. “I wouldn’t be here if I didn’t believe I could still contend. I’m not showing up just to walk the course — I’m here to try and win.”

Woods, 49, confirmed that he will not only compete at Valhalla — the site of his epic 2000 PGA Championship win — but that this event marks a pivotal moment in what he called his “final competitive arc.” While he stopped short of officially announcing retirement, he left little doubt that the end is on his terms and fast approaching.

A Legendary Return to a Historic Venue

Valhalla Golf Club holds a special place in Woods’ legacy. It was there, a quarter-century ago, that he triumphed in a dramatic playoff against Bob May to capture his fifth major title — a win that cemented his dominance at the dawn of the 21st century.

Now, in 2025, Tiger returns not as the young phenom, but as the elder statesman of golf. Yet, as he walked the grounds this week, fans and players alike couldn’t help but feel a sense of magic in the air.

“I’ve won here before, and I remember what it feels like to close one out under pressure,” Woods said. “I don’t have the same body I used to — but my mind, my hands, my focus — those haven’t gone anywhere.”

Health, Motivation, and the Road Ahead

Tiger’s physical condition has been a persistent concern since his devastating car crash in 2021, which nearly cost him his right leg. Since then, his appearances have been limited and carefully calculated, with a focus on majors and legacy events.

When asked about his current health status, Woods didn’t shy away from the realities.

“I won’t sugarcoat it — I wake up every morning in pain. But that’s the price of chasing greatness for so long,” he said. “The motivation hasn’t left me. I still feel like I’ve got one more in me.”

His longtime caddie, Joe LaCava, will be on the bag this week, reuniting with Woods for what could be their final major campaign together. Woods has also added renowned swing coach Chris Como back to his team, in what some insiders are calling a “last ride” configuration.

The Golf World Reacts

The response to Woods’ announcement was immediate and emotional. Rory McIlroy, who has idolized Woods since childhood and famously played alongside him in the 2012 Ryder Cup, called the announcement “a reminder that legends don’t fade — they choose their exit.”

“Just seeing Tiger tee it up again means more to the game than people realize,” McIlroy said. “He’s the reason so many of us are even here.”

Jon Rahm echoed the sentiment: “He’s already done everything, and yet he’s still pushing. That’s what makes him Tiger.”

The PGA of America released a statement welcoming Woods back to Valhalla and announcing a series of tributes that will honor his legacy throughout the week. There are rumors of a ceremonial moment planned for Sunday, should Woods make the cut — or pull off the unthinkable and contend.

A Final Shot at Glory?

Woods has not won a major since his miraculous 2019 Masters victory, a moment many called the greatest comeback in sports history. But golf fans know better than to count him out, especially on a course where he’s tasted victory before.

If this is it — if this is my last real shot — then I’m going to embrace it,” Woods said. “I owe it to myself, to the game, and to everyone who believed in me when I couldn’t even walk. I’m swinging freely this week