Tiger Woods is reportedly nearing a return to golf after reaching a major rehab milestone following months away from competition.
“Woods’ 2008 Gulfstream G550 — an ultra-long-range business jet that goes for a cool $50 million — departed from Zurich Airport a few minutes after 2 p.m. local time … headed for the United States,” TMZ Sports reported, adding that Woods’ return to the U.S. appeared to indicate that his rehab stint was completed. The update immediately reignited speculation about Woods’ competitive future, with golf fans now wondering whether the 15-time major champion could soon make his first public appearance since entering rehab in Switzerland.
His private jet reportedly landed at Palm Beach International Airport on Wednesday, roughly 40 days after the golf legend flew to Zurich, Switzerland, to check into one of the world’s most exclusive rehabilitation facilities. The flight departed Zurich Airport shortly after 2 p.m. local time, according to TMZ Sports.
Woods’ DUI Arrest and the Road to Switzerland
Woods’ departure from public life began on March 27, when Martin County, Florida, sheriff’s deputies arrested the 50-year-old after his Land Rover struck a truck and trailer on Jupiter Island before rolling onto its side. First responders discovered two hydrocodone pills in his pocket, per a sheriff’s office report cited by ClutchPoints’ Autumn Hawkins. Woods passed a breathalyzer test but declined a urinalysis, drawing an additional charge. He was also cited for property damage and careless driving and pleaded not guilty to all counts on March 31.
Woods posted a statement before going silent.
“I know and understand the seriousness of the situation I find myself in today,” he wrote at the time. “I am stepping away for a period of time to seek treatment and focus on my health. This is necessary in order for me to prioritize my well-being and work toward lasting recovery.”
His attorney secured court approval for international travel, opening the door to the Zurich facility. A source told the Daily Mail that Woods had been working with a pain management specialist aimed at treating his chronic injuries without addictive opioids. Those close to him said he had been responding well to the program.
The legal case continued while he was abroad. On May 12, a Martin County Circuit Court judge granted prosecutors access to Woods’ prescription drug records, according to an ESPN.com report. Both sides agreed to a protective order shielding those records from public view. Woods is due back in court on June 2.
Tiger Woods’ Ryder Cup Future Takes Shape
As Woods steps back onto American soil, the golf world is already eyeing his next chapter. U.S. Ryder Cup captain Jim Furyk confirmed this week that the offer for Woods to join the 2027 squad remains on the table.
“We haven’t spoken yet,” Furyk said, as reported by The Spun’s Andrew Holleran. “Definitely. We’ll see where that role may fall. I think he brought a lot to the team room and a lot of knowledge and a lot of experience.”
Woods reportedly declined the U.S. captain’s role after the 2025 Ryder Cup, making a vice captain position the likeliest avenue. He will not compete at the 2026 PGA Championship, underway this week near Philadelphia. His last competitive appearance came at a TGL event in March, just before the crash changed everything.
Tiger Woods Nearing Golf Return After Major Rehab Milestone: Report