CHARLOTTE, NC – May 12, 2025, 10:30 AM +07 – The golf community was dealt a devastating blow today as a CBS Sports reporter delivered a somber assessment of Tiger Woods’ future, claiming the 15-time major champion “can’t play like he used to” as he faces an extended pause from the PGA Tour. The heartbreaking statement, made during a segment on CBS Sports HQ, has reignited concerns about the legendary golfer’s career trajectory, especially following his recent withdrawal from the 2025 PGA Championship due to ongoing health struggles.
The CBS reporter, veteran golf analyst Mark Immelman, shared his observations after speaking with sources close to Woods. “Tiger’s body just isn’t responding the way it once did,” Immelman said. “The surgeries, the injuries, the wear and tear—it’s taken a toll. He can’t play like he used to, and we may never see that Tiger again.” Woods, 49, has been sidelined since announcing in late April that he would not compete for the remainder of 2025 due to complications from a March surgery on his left Achilles tendon. The injury, sustained during training for the Masters, has kept him off the course, marking one of the longest breaks in his storied career.
Woods’ absence has already been felt deeply. He missed the Masters 2025—his first absence from Augusta since 1994—partly due to the passing of his mother, Kultida Woods, in February, and now his withdrawal from the PGA Championship (May 15-18) at Quail Hollow has left fans heartbroken. Immelman’s comments echo sentiments from others in the golf world, with some speculating that Woods, who turns 50 in December, may shift focus to the PGA Tour Champions in 2026 rather than return to the PGA Tour at his previous level. “He’s given so much to the game,” Immelman added. “But there’s a reality we have to face—he’s not the same player physically.”
Fans on X have expressed a mix of sadness and hope. “Hearing this about Tiger breaks my heart—he’s the reason I love golf,” one user wrote. Another posted, “Tiger will find a way back, he always does. Don’t count him out!” Fellow players have also weighed in, with Rory McIlroy, who recently shared a supportive message for Woods, saying, “Tiger’s a fighter, but we all know how tough these injuries are.” Scottie Scheffler, the world No. 1, added, “He’s still an inspiration, no matter what happens.”
Woods’ career has been defined by both unparalleled success—82 PGA Tour wins, tying the all-time record, and 15 majors—and significant setbacks, including a near-fatal car crash in 2021 and multiple back surgeries. His last competitive appearance was at The Open in July 2024, where he missed the cut, and his physical struggles have become increasingly apparent. Despite this, Woods has remained optimistic, stating in April, “My focus is on returning stronger in 2026.” However, Immelman’s stark assessment has cast doubt on whether Woods can reclaim his past dominance, leaving many to wonder if the golf world has seen the last of the iconic “Tiger roar.”
As the PGA Championship approaches without one of its greatest champions, the focus remains on Woods’ recovery and what lies ahead for the legend. While the CBS reporter’s words have struck a somber chord, Woods’ legacy as one of the greatest ever remains untouchable, even if his playing days may be nearing their end.
