8. For the third time in four years, no Tiger Woods
Most of the focus belongs on the guys who are teeing it up. But it would be naive to think a great deal of attention won’t go to Tiger, a man not playing at Augusta. For the third time in four years and the second straight year, Tiger will not be competing for his fifth green jacket.
The story isn’t just that he’s not going to be there. Sure, Woods is a four-time Masters champ, one of the greatest players of all time and remains one of golf’s biggest names. The absence of anyone with that resume would be noteworthy.
But the impact of Tiger’s absence goes beyond 2017.
For years, there’s been a question circling Tiger. With 14 majors, can he equal (or surpass) Jack Nicklaus’ career record of 18?
At one point, it seemed like a formality. Then, Tiger’s injuries and his personal life issues brought it more in doubt. Now, it seems like something that’s only possible in theory. Sure, Woods can break that record, but so could Tom Watson. Just don’t go placing any bets on either.
Now, the question is different. Will we ever see Tiger in competitive golf again? Not just at his top form, but ever again, period.
Woods missed not just the 2016 Masters, but the entire season. He briefly returned in 2017, but couldn’t complete two tournaments. Now, after a few more months to get healthy, he still can’t get out and compete. It makes us wonder if we’ll ever see his magic again.