Tiger Woods Confirms That His Recovery is Ahead Of Schedule

Tiger Woods eased the concerns of the golf world Wednesday afternoon. 

Speaking at the Chevron World Challenge, which he is hosting in Thousand Oaks, CA, Woods stated that his recovery is ahead of schedule and he could possibly play in at least one event prior to the 2009 Masters.

Woods told the press conference that he has already started hitting short irons and is able to stabilize his reconstructed left knee during his swing.

Woods underwent season-ending reconstructive ACL surgery after his now legendary win at the 2008 US Open and had initially expected to begin hitting golf balls sometime in early 2009.

“Right now, it feels great…..The leg has responded well. I’m actually stronger in my legs than I think I have ever been.” Woods told a room full of reporters who were surely on the edge of their seats. 

Woods went on to say, “I’ve chipped and putted for a while, but as far as making bigger swings, I’ve actually just started”.

Woods also made it clear that although his recover appears to be moving along smoothly, there are many questions that still remain.

“I don't know how it's going to respond with repeated practice days and long days of practice trying to get back, and ultimately playing my way into shape. That's obviously going to take a little bit of time."  Woods said.

When asked again about his intention to play in the 2009 Masters, Woods said, “As far as intention, yes, that's always been an intent.  As far as reality, that's two different things. I don't know.  That's the most frustrating thing is the uncertainty. Everyone heals at different rates. I couldn't tell you and my surgeon can't tell you, trainers can't tell you.” 

Woods appeared to be optimistic and eager to tell the world how his recovery was advancing.  However, he was also realistic in making it clear that there are still many unanswered questions as to how his knee will respond as he begins to push it harder. 

At times, Woods can appear to be super human due to his uncanny ability to accomplish things on the golf course that, well, we simply have never seen before.

Although an amazingly talented golfer, Woods is indeed human and no amount of rehab or training will allow his knee to heal at a super-human pace. 

But, Woods has now confirmed that his recovery is ahead of schedule, which is by far the best news to hit the golf world in quite some time.

Golf fans, players and the PGA Tour can sit back and take a deep breath this evening as Tiger Woods has at least taken the first steps towards a full recovery in 2009.