Woods confirms return to action next week

Published on Friday 20 February 2009 01:13

WORLD No1 Tiger Woods will make his long-awaited comeback from injury in next week's World Golf Championships- Accenture Match Play Championship in Tucson.

PGA Tour commissioner Tim Finchem revealed last night the 33-year-old had committed to play in the event in Arizona.

Woods has been out of action since winning the US Open in June last year after having reconstructive surgery on the anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee the following week. But, on his own website, Woods said: "I'm now ready to play again. Elin and our new son, Charlie, are doing great. I've enjoyed my time at home with the family and appreciate everyone's support and kind wishes."

Woods' victory at the US Open last June was his 10th victory in his last 13 tournaments – and in the other three he was second twice and fifth in the other.

He has held on to the world No1 spot throughout his lengthy lay-off, although Sergio Garcia has cut his lead to just over two points and could have gone top in the next two weeks if Woods had not returned.

Among those 10 victories was the Match Play and, assuming there are no withdrawals, he will begin his defence against Australian Brendan Jones, 64th in the world, next Wednesday.

Woods described his victory at Torrey Pines as "probably the greatest tournament I've ever had." He had to play more holes than he ever has for his 14 major victories – 91 in all – but he was referring, of course, to the fact he not only needed knee reconstruction surgery, but also had a double stress fracture in his left leg.

"We are delighted that Tiger is returning to competition and look forward to watching him compete next week," said Tour commissioner Finchem.

Woods' caddie Steve Williams had said earlier this week that the American was "probably 95 per cent of the way there".