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Tiger Woods tried to hit balls last week, last session lasted five minutes

April 01, 2017
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Ross Kinnaird

The fact that Tiger Woods won't play the Masters is hardly a shock given that he hasn't played competitively since withdrawing from Dubai in February. As far back as two weeks ago, sources said Woods in the field in Augusta was doubtful.

What may be surprising is that Woods did attempt to test his game in two practice sessions at Medalist Golf Club near his Jupiter Island, Fla., home. In addition to training and working on his wedge game hitting shorter clubs at home since prior to the Arnold Palmer Invitational, Woods did attempt to test out his driver swing in his first two practice sessions at Medalist. According to sources who spoke with Golf World’s Tim Rosaforte, Woods appeared stiff and the second session on Thursday lasted in the five-minute range. Although dormant for eight weeks, Woods, according to agent Mark Steinberg, harbored legitimate hopes that he could return for the Masters.

"He just started hitting balls in a full capacity this week and so the timetable got so condensed there was no way for him to get ready to play next week," Steinberg told Rosaforte.

Woods announced on Friday night that he'll miss the Masters for the third time in four years. When asked whether Woods' withdrawal was a reflection of his back or his game, Steinberg said, "Probably some of both, to be honest."

In a statement on his website, Woods said he plans to attend Tuesday night's Champions Dinner. The 2017 Masters will mark the 20-year anniversary of Woods' historic first major win as a professional.

There is no timetable for Woods' return, but Steinberg was insistent that Woods would be back.

"He's not done," Steinberg said.