Despite hurdles, Tiger Woods finishes 1 under after 13 holes at Augusta, with a demanding schedule ahead due to weather disruptions

Tiger Woods faced the gusty conditions at Augusta National Golf Club with resilience on Thursday, concluding the first 13 holes of the 88th Masters at 1 under par. The legendary golfer, amidst recovery from ankle surgery and various physical setbacks, now prepares for an intense Friday, where he is set to complete an additional 23 holes.

The day’s play was cut short due to darkness after a delayed start, setting Woods up for a marathon session the following day. He will resume his first round early in the morning and almost seamlessly transition into the second round, testing both his endurance and his recent recovery.

Woods, now 48, has had a challenging journey back to major golf tournaments following a severe car accident in 2021 and subsequent health issues. His performance at Augusta marks a significant milestone, showing marked improvement in mobility and stamina compared to last year’s Masters, where he withdrew due to plantar fasciitis.

On the course, Woods managed the erratic winds with skill, particularly noting the challenge they posed on the greens. “It was one of the most tricky days that I’ve ever been a part of,” Woods commented on the unpredictable conditions that influenced numerous shots throughout the day.

Woods’ strategy and execution were evident from the start. He scored a birdie on the first hole, a feat he had not achieved in an opening round at Augusta since 1999. His resilience shone through on the second hole, where after a challenging drive, he successfully saved par in a remarkable left-handed pitch from under a tree.

Despite a bogey on the fourth, Woods returned to form on the eighth hole with a second birdie, finishing his limited play strongly. His performance underscores a cautious yet strategic approach to managing his game amid recovery and less frequent competitive play.

The demanding schedule ahead raises questions about his physical preparedness to handle such a condensed round of competitive golf. Woods has been open about the extensive regimen of physical therapy, massages, and ice baths that have become necessary for him to compete at this level.

As Woods prepares for his extended play on Friday, the golf world watches with anticipation and hope. His journey at this year’s Masters is not just about scores and play—it’s about the resilience and determination of one of the sport’s greatest icons facing down physical adversities with remarkable grit and skill.