Is Tiger Woods set to return to action at November's Hero World Challenge?

Woods is set to host the annual PGA Tour event as usual, but there is uncertainty surrounding whether the 47-year-old golf icon will actually take part.

In a recent announcement, the 15-time major winner revealed a star-studded lineup of 19 players in the 20-man field for the tournament starting on November 30. 

Among the participants are notable figures like World No 1 Scottie Scheffler and defending champion Viktor Hovland, who was part of the victorious European Ryder Cup team.

There are 11 members of the US Ryder Cup team in all, as well as three from the victorious European side. One noticeable absence from the list is Brooks Koepka.

Adding to the intrigue is the final spot in the tournament, which is yet to be filled and will be announced at a later date. This has sparked speculation the spot is being reserved for none other than Woods himself.

Woods has been away from competitive play since his withdrawal from the Masters after making the cut. He subsequently underwent ankle surgery to address injuries related to a car accident in 2021, although he was seen hitting wedges at a foundation event at Pebble Beach recently.

Other notables in the field include Rickie Fowler and Justin Thomas, both of whom received sponsor exemptions.

Newcomers include 2023 US Open champ Wyndham Clark and 2023 Open Championship winner Brian Harman.

The event offers world ranking points, and players must be in the top 50 to secure an exemption. Notably, there is a provision that allows tournament host Woods to use an exemption if he decides to participate.

Provisional Hero World Challenge Field

Keegan Bradley, Sam Burns, Patrick Cantlay, Wyndham Clark, Jason Day, Tony Finau, Matt Fitzpatrick, Rickie Fowler, Brian Harman, Max Homa, Viktor Hovland, Collin Morikawa, Xander Schauffele, Scottie Scheffler, Jordan Spieth, Sepp Straka, Justin Thomas, Cameron Young, Will Zalatoris.

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