**Tiger Woods Undergoes Sixth Back Surgery to Alleviate Chronic Spasms**
Tiger Woods, often considered the greatest golfer of all time, is once again facing health setbacks as he recently underwent his sixth lower back surgery in a decade. This procedure, known as microdiscectomy or microdecompression surgery, aims to alleviate the nerve impingement in his lumbar spine, a condition that has been causing severe spasms throughout the 2024 season. The surgery was performed by Dr. Sheeraz Qureshi of the Hospital for Special Surgery and was declared successful. The estimated cost of the surgery ranges from $15,000 to $50,000.
Woods’ recovery is expected to take between 8 to 12 weeks, limiting his participation in golf events during this period. This has been a challenging year for Woods, as he was already dealing with back issues that restricted his appearances to just five tournaments, including the four major championships and his own Genesis Invitational. Despite these setbacks, Woods expressed optimism about the potential benefits of this latest surgery, hoping it will help reduce his pain and spasms. In a statement, Woods said, “The surgery went smoothly, and I’m hopeful this will help alleviate the back spasms and pain I was experiencing throughout most of the 2024 season.”
This operation adds to Woods’ history of back-related surgeries. He initially had a microdiscectomy in 2014, followed by two more in 2015, and a spinal fusion surgery in 2017. In December 2020, Woods underwent yet another microdiscectomy. In addition to his back issues, he sustained severe leg and ankle injuries during a car accident in February 2021. Reflecting on his journey, Woods remarked, “I look forward to tackling this rehab and preparing myself to get back to normal life activities, including golf.”
Woods has had previous medical interventions even during the peak of his career. In late 2002, after a highly successful season in which he won five tournaments, including the Masters and U.S. Open, Woods underwent surgery to remove a benign cyst from his left knee and drain fluid from around a ligament. This did not keep him down for long, as he returned to compete in the Buick Invitational in early 2003, demonstrating his tenacity and focus by securing a victory with a score of 16 under par. Despite this health setback, he maintained his position as the world’s top golfer in 2003, participating in 18 PGA Tour events that year. His relentless drive and resilience have solidified his status as a golf legend and continue to inspire fans and fellow golfers.
### The Road to Recovery: Can Woods Make Another Comeback?
The golf community is now speculating whether Woods will be able to return to his former glory after this latest surgery. Questions are circulating about his future, with opinions divided on whether he can make a full comeback, return at a reduced capacity, or if this marks the end of his legendary career. Woods himself remains determined and is preparing for the road to rehabilitation.
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