Tiger made his long-awaited PGA Tour return after three months on the sidelines at last week's WGC-Bridgestone Invitational where he tied for 37th after displaying erratic form. Having not competed on the U.S. circuit since the Players Championship in May when he withdrew after just nine holes, Woods said he was "absolutely encouraged" ahead of this week.
"I've just got to keep playing," the former world number one told reporters after signing off with a level-par 70 at Firestone Country Club. "It's just something that comes over time of just playing and getting the feel for it." Asked whether one more tournament under his belt would have been desirable before this week's PGA Championship, Woods replied: "It would be nice, but hey, I've got three days. So I'm going to worry about these three days, apply it accordingly and be ready come Thursday."
Woods has more major championships than any other golfer currently on the PGA Tour. But that doesn't mean he won't have competition for the next — and it could start this week at the PGA Championship. After all, conventional wisdom holds that a golfer doesn't hit his prime until his mid-30s.
We haven't seen the last of the former world No. 1. You can bet on it. Woods may be hard-pressed to get the five majors he needs to pass Jack Nicklaus for the all-time mark but he's hardly past his prime. Once the now-healthy Woods gets comfortable with the swing he's reconstructed under the guidance of Sean Foley, the 35-year-old will contend — and win — again. There is no one with more determination than Woods.
Point-Spreads recommends you check the Golf Odds for a full list of player odds before the 2011 PGA Championship tees-off.
The Bottom Line: It would be nice to see Tiger win, or even finish in the mix. But, the last six Major winners have been first timers as the youth take over. Be sure to get your 2011 PGA Championship predictions in early to beat the rush.
