Tiger Woods’ Foundation Marks 30 Years with $20M Grant as Golf Legend Eyes Comeback
PALM BEACH, Fla., January 20, 2026 – Tiger Woods celebrated the 30th anniversary of his TGR Foundation this week, announcing a $20 million grant from Atlanta Falcons owner Arthur Blank to establish a new learning lab in Atlanta. The milestone event, which raised $50 million for educational initiatives, coincided with Woods’ candid admission about his ongoing recovery from a seventh back surgery, stating he remains “pretty rusty” as he eyes a potential return to competition.
A Candid Recovery Update
Now 50 years old, Woods provided a frank assessment of his physical condition following an October 2025 back procedure and a torn Achilles tendon suffered in March 2025. “I will have been away from the game for a year and a half,” Woods told ESPN. “So I’m gonna be pretty rusty.” Doctors have cleared him to hit only short and mid-irons, marking progress but falling short of full competition readiness. Woods last played competitively at the PNC Championship with his son Charlie in December 2024 and has not played a full PGA Tour event since the 2024 Masters.
Educational Legacy Takes Center Stage
The “RED: Celebrating Legacy” gala at The Breakers hotel featured a performance by Jon Bon Jovi and attendance from PGA Tour stars including Justin Thomas, Rickie Fowler, and Max Homa. The $20 million grant from the Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation will transform a historic 1928 school building into the TGR Learning Lab Atlanta, serving thousands of Atlanta Public Schools students annually with STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics) programming.
“Tonight was a reminder that the legacy I’m most proud of isn’t on the golf course; it’s the work we’ve done to positively impact the lives of students through TGR Foundation,” Woods said in a statement. Since its founding in 1996, the foundation has served more than 217,000 students through its learning labs and educational programs.
Tiger Woods at The Masters: A Historical Record
| Year | Result & Achievement |
|---|---|
| 1997 | WIN – Youngest Masters winner (21) with record score of 270 (-18) and record 12-shot victory. |
| 2001 | WIN – Second Masters title, completing the “Tiger Slam” of holding all four major titles simultaneously. |
| 2002 | WIN – Third Masters title, becoming just the third player to defend his championship at Augusta. |
| 2005 | WIN – Fourth Masters title, defeating Chris DiMarco in a playoff with a dramatic birdie on the first extra hole. |
| 2019 | WIN – Fifth Masters title at age 43, his 15th major championship and first major victory in 11 years. |
| 2020 | Tournament record of 270 (-18) was broken by Dustin Johnson, who shot 268 (-20). |
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Tiger Woods have his most recent surgery?
Woods underwent his seventh back surgery on October 10, 2025, to address a disc issue. This followed recovery from a torn Achilles tendon suffered in March 2025.
What is the status of Tiger Woods’ TGL team?
Woods is the owner of Jupiter Links GC in the TGL (Tomorrow Golf League), the indoor golf league he co-founded with Rory McIlroy. He has attended matches but has not yet competed as he continues his recovery.
How many PGA Tour wins does Tiger Woods have?
Woods has 82 PGA Tour victories, tying him with Sam Snead for the all-time record. His career earnings total $120,999,166.
Is Tiger Woods playing in the 2026 Masters?
Woods has not officially confirmed his participation. As a past champion, he has a lifetime invitation, but his status will depend on his recovery progress. The 2026 Masters is scheduled for April 9-12 at Augusta National Golf Club.