Tiger Woods, who traditionally hosts the Hero World Challenge, will not compete in this year’s event set for December 4–7 at Albany in the Bahamas. Organisers confirmed his absence when they published the final player list, noting that Woods remains focused on recovery rather than competition.

When the initial roster was announced several weeks ago, three invitation spots were intentionally left open in case Woods could be cleared to play. Following a lumbar disc replacement operation, however, the 15-time major champion has not been medically cleared to return to tournament golf, and the timeline for a full comeback is still uncertain.

Woods’ recent health record includes multiple procedures. In March he had surgery to repair a ruptured left Achilles tendon, adding to the series of operations he has undergone since his severe leg injuries sustained in a 2021 car crash. The latest back surgery is another step in a long rehabilitation process that has kept him away from regular competition.

The last time Woods appeared in a PGA Tour-sanctioned event was at the British Open in July 2024, where he did not advance past the cut. Since then he has limited his public outings and directed his energy toward rehabilitation, making the decision to sit out the Hero World Challenge a cautious move to protect his long-term health.

With Woods absent from play, the tournament’s 20-player field is now complete. The final three invites were awarded to Jordan Spieth, Billy Horschel and Akshay Bhatia, who will join an elite group of competitors at the invitational that raises funds for the Tiger Woods Foundation.

Twice-defending champion Scottie Scheffler is set to defend his crown, and Japan’s Hideki Matsuyama, the 2016 winner, is also among the entrants. The Hero World Challenge is known for its compact, high-calibre field, offering a relaxed yet intensely competitive atmosphere for top-ranked players.

Beyond the leaderboard, the tournament remains a key fundraising platform for the Tiger Woods Foundation, supporting scholarships, youth programs and mentorship initiatives. Even without Woods in the playing field, his role as host continues to attract attention and support for the foundation’s educational mission.

Fans and peers alike are hopeful for Woods’ recovery and a future return to selective play. While no precise date has been set for his competitive comeback, there is optimism that improved health could allow appearances in exhibitions or limited events in 2025.

Woods’ sporting legacy — fifteen major titles and an enduring influence on golf — remains undiminished. For now, stepping back from tournament play is a deliberate choice to prioritise healing, while his presence as a mentor and ambassador for the game continues to resonate worldwide.