The 2026 Hero World Challenge has announced 17 players for its 20-player field, including seven of the world’s top 10. Tiger Woods is not yet entered, but three tournament exemptions remain open—giving the host the option to play if he feels ready. Woods has not announced a return date after a series of health issues and a break from golf to seek treatment.

By the Numbers
  • Dec. 3-6: The tournament dates at Albany in the Bahamas.
  • 17 of 20: Players announced; three exemption spots remain.
  • 7 of the world’s top 10: Players are confirmed for the field.
  • 2024 Open Championship: Woods’ most recent competitive golf appearance.
Yes, But

Woods has used a tournament exemption to enter the Hero before, and the remaining spots make that possible without displacing another player. Still, his participation is uncertain: he has not said when he’ll return, and his recent appearances—on the TGL roster and at a junior clinic—are not confirmation that he is ready to compete.

State of Play
  • Scottie Scheffler, Matt Fitzpatrick and Cameron Young headline the announced field.
  • Woods last played the Hero in 2023 and has not competed professionally since 2024.
  • He is listed for TGL season three as captain of Jupiter Links Golf Club.
What’s Next

Woods’ health and readiness will determine whether he takes one of the open exemptions. If he returns to professional golf, he has indicated he would likely play a limited schedule.

Bottom Line

The open spots keep the door open, but Woods’ presence at his own tournament remains a possibility—not a promise.