The Loop

For Woods, it's getting late in a hurry

April 11, 2009

AUGUSTA, Ga. -- The first drive of the day might have spoken volumes about Tiger Woods' chances of a comeback this weekend. Woods was called to the tee, took a few practice swings, and then launched a dead pull into the pines (where he narrowly missed hitting GolfDigest.com's Thomas Bonk. Hey, at least he would have gotten a story out of it).

From there the adventure only continued -- a low-lying hook from under the trees to right of the green, a mediocre chip that nearly rolled back to his feet, and then three putts before holing out for double bogey. We mentioned this was Tiger Woods, right?

Anyway, the four-time Masters champion is now on his back nine, and has managed to get back to even par for his round (two under for the tournament). But he's still nine shots behind leader Kenny Perry, and has history working against him. Woods has won 14 majors, but he's had at least a share of the 54-hole lead every time.

-- Sam Weinman