Tiger Woods has once again found himself at the center of retirement speculation as he continues to deal with the physical toll of years of injuries. Following a DUI arrest in March 2026, Woods released a statement in which he said he was “stepping away for a period of time to seek treatment.”
In a recent interview with The Athletic, Woods’ former caddie Joe LaCava weighed in, offering perspective on Woods’ future in the game. While nothing has been confirmed by Woods himself, his competitive future remains uncertain. Regardless, the discussion reflects a broader reality: every start to come will be surrounded by questions about whether it could be one of his last.
LaCava made his feelings on the matter crystal clear: “I wouldn’t put anything past the guy. So I’d never write him off,” he said when asked if he thought Woods would ever return to the Masters.
Tiger Woods Addressed Retirement Chatter in February
In recent seasons, Woods has battled recurring setbacks that have limited his schedule and raised ongoing questions about how much competitive golf he realistically has left in him.
At age 50, Woods could still play at a competitive level. But, with his body no longer able to withstand the grind of a full PGA Tour season, fans and analysts alike have increasingly begun to wonder whether the end is near.
“I’m trying, put it that way,” Woods told the media at the Genesis Invitational, referring to a potential comeback after undergoing back surgery months prior. “The disc replacement has been one thing, it’s been a challenge.”
“I entered a new decade, so that number is starting to sink in,” he continued, giving a nod to his 50th birthday, which he celebrated in December. “My body has been through a lot. It’s one of those things, each and every day I keep trying, keep progressing and working on it. I’m trying to get this body at a level where I can play at the highest level again. Yeah I’m able to (hit full shots), not well every day, but I can hit them,” he added.
Joe LaCava Offers Support to Tiger Woods From Afar
Following recent developments in Woods’ personal life, LaCava said he wishes the best for Woods.
“He’s got to help himself, which is what I’m hoping he’ll do,” LaCava told The Athletic. “But I have not made any contact with him. I’m leaving him alone and letting him figure it out for himself.”
“He’s got enough people probably texting him and hounding him, right?” LaCava said. “I don’t need to bother him. I care greatly about him. I’m not pissed at him. He knows that. He knows that I care deeply about him. He’s got enough stuff going on, so I’m sure we’ll communicate once he’s back home,” LaCava added.
Is Tiger Woods Retiring? His Former Caddie Weighs In