'Huge excitement': Golf world erupts over massive Tiger Woods news

Tiger Woods has announced his participation at the JP McManus Pro-Am in Ireland in July - a key event that will serve as preparation for The Open at St Andrews.

Woods confirmed he will be playing in The Open following his successful return to action at the Masters last week, although he admitted he does not expect to ever play a full schedule again.

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The Pro-Am at Adare Manor, which is hosted by Irish racehorse owner JP McManus, will feature a number of the biggest names in golf, including Woods, Ernie Els, Jon Rahm, and Rory McIlroy.

Woods has appeared at the charity event on three previous occasions, and McManus said he is delighted to have the legendary 46-year-old on board.

“Tiger has been a great friend and avid supporter of the Pro-Am for a very long time and we are absolutely thrilled he has committed to play once again in the tournament," he said.

"His presence at Adare Manor will undoubtedly bring huge excitement to the thousands of spectators.

"We are very grateful to him for giving up his free time to be with us."

Woods defied the odds to complete a successful return to golf at the Masters, making the cut and finishing all four rounds after his car accident in November 2020.

Not only did he make the cut for a 22nd successive time at Augusta, he also played all 72 holes.

After a strong start he faded from contention and carded back-to-back rounds of six-over 78 on Saturday and Sunday - both career-worst scores.

However he was just grateful to be back doing what he loves and confirmed he will tee it up at The Open in July.

“I won’t be playing a full schedule ever again, it’ll be just the big events,” he said.

“I am looking forward to St Andrews. That is something that is near and dear to my heart.

"I’ve won two Opens there, it’s the home of golf, it’s my favourite golf course in the world. I will be there for that one.”

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Woods was given a standing ovation as he walked towards the 18th green and had a huge grin on his face as he headed to Augusta National’s clubhouse.

“It was an unbelievable feeling to have the patrons and their support out there," he said.

"I was not exactly playing my best out there and to have the support, I don’t think words can really describe that given where I was and what my prospects were at that time.

“To end up here and play all four rounds, even a month ago I didn’t know if I could pull this off.

“It’s hard. I have those days where I just don’t want to do anything, it just hurts, but I have had a great team around me that are positive, that have motivated me and helped me around.

“There have been more tough days than easy days and I just have to work through it.

"I have put in the time and the hard part is the recovery sessions. Those ice baths really suck.”

with agencies

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