Golf World UK

A new year, a fresh start.

As the US Masters begins to rise upon us, everyone is pondering the same question: Is Tiger back?

Last year proved bad luck for Woods, as he was clearly off form and a long way from his best. A new swing coach and a different caddie did not appear to propel him back to the top, and instead we saw European golf triumph in his place. Luke Donald shone during 2011, topping both the PGA and European Tour money lists, and Northern Ireland saw success with Rory McIlroy and Darren Clarke emerging as Major champions. Once again, 2012 is set to be a great year with many opportunities, and if Tiger is going to get back on top, this is the year to prove it.

Although 2011 was ultimately a poor year for Woods, he showed some promise at the end of the season by winning the Chevron World Challenge in California. At the beginning of the event, American commentator Mark Roe predicted Woods would do well in the tournament, and he predicted further promise from the former world number one in 2012. If Tiger’s win in California was anything to go by, he may be right.

The debate continues as to whether Woods will ever beat Jack Nicklaus’ eighteen majors, however, if Tiger gets back to anywhere near the level he was at in 2000, surely such a target is not out of reach.