Golf’s future still unclear but Tiger Woods remains the draw who will not fade | Ewan Murray

The 15-time major winner returns to action next week but it is his off-course influence which is almost as eagerly anticipated

It was always about what he did as opposed to what he said. The rise of Tiger Woods, to not only the dominant figure in golf but one of the most recognisable individuals in the world, occurred because of what transpired with clubs in hand rather than in front of microphones. The young Woods had a distrust of the press. Relations grew even more complex after scandal hit the golfer’s personal life. The media had to exist alongside him – to an extent careers depended on his prominence – without any sense of mutual warmth until the closing phase of his playing days became a stark reality.

This time, it is absolutely about what he says. Woods will make another comeback – Sinatra, etc – at next week’s Hero World Challenge in the Bahamas. With his foundation a benefactor and the backdrop lacking frenzy, Woods has made a habit of Albany appearances in December. This will be his first since he limped out of the Masters. Participation is a surprise, given the extent of his physical trouble at Augusta National in April.

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