Tiger Woods sparks Masters speculation as private jet spotted | Golf | Sport
Tiger Woods has fuelled rumours that he might make another appearance at The Masters after his private jet was seen touching down at Augusta Regional Airport on Saturday. Woods, 50, did not compete at The Masters – or any other PGA major tournament – in 2025 following a 60th place finish in Augusta in 2024.
The California-born legend has triumphed at the tournament on five occasions, with his latest victory coming in a remarkable comeback despite battling injuries and personal difficulties. With just three weeks remaining until the 2026 Masters, Woods’ private plane was photographed in the Augusta area, prompting some golf enthusiasts to wonder whether he might stage a surprise return to the prestigious event.
“Tiger Woods‘ Masters return a possibility as the 15-time Major winner gets spotted in Augusta,” one supporter posted on X. “Praying that it was a practice round,” an observant second commented.
“The private jet belonging to 5-time Masters Champion, Tiger Woods was spotted at Augusta Regional airport yesterday with Masters speculation looming,” another wrote. “Will he play The Masters?”
“Tiger Woods plane at The Masters! ? ! Fully back if he plays,” a fourth said. “Of course he will, he’s there now plotting his way round to win on the Sunday,” a fifth suggested.
However, according to GolfMagic, the actual purpose behind Woods’ Augusta visit was his 17-year-old son Charlie Woods’ participation in the prestigious Junior Invitational at Sage Valley Golf Club, which is approximately 20 minutes from Augusta National. The youngster, though, struggled throughout the elite tournament, placing bottom of the field at 26 over-par following four rounds in Graniteville, South Carolina.
Whilst Masters preparation wasn’t the primary motivation for Woods’ Augusta journey, he hasn’t dismissed the possibility of competing in the tournament that starts on Thursday, April 9.
Woods revealed to CBS Sports last month: “I know I’ll be there… we’re going to open ‘The Patch’ (his new Augusta course). Trev and I are going to be part of a great dinner (Champions Dinner served by Rory McIlroy).”
When questioned about potentially playing, Woods responded: “There is.”
He was subsequently asked whether he might feature in a competition beforehand, to which Woods answered: “I don’t know, I don’t know whether it’s regular tour, senior tour or member guest, I don’t know.”
The 15-time major champion hasn’t competed since missing the cut at The Open in July 2024. He suffered an Achilles rupture in March 2025 and hasn’t returned to action in the 12 months since.
