Tiger Woods is set to turn 50 on December 30, 2025, and the milestone is expected to be a major event in the world of golf. Although he hasn’t been active on the course lately, Woods remains one of the most iconic figures in the sport. However, while most fans are excited about his upcoming birthday and the potential next chapter of his career, not everyone in the golf world is equally thrilled.
One notable figure who may not be too happy is John Daly. His concerns don’t stem from rivalry or resentment, but rather from admiration. Daly believes that Woods still has what it takes to compete at the highest level. In his opinion, the PGA Tour Champions—often referred to as the Senior Tour—might not provide the kind of challenge or reward Woods still deserves. Daly thinks Woods can still aim for the World No. 1 spot and hopes he stays on the PGA Tour rather than making the switch to the senior circuit.
. @SBJ polled the golf industry this spring to find the most marketable men’s player.
The results ⬇️ https://t.co/MzZTC9lrIn
— Josh Carpenter (@JoshACarpenter) April 7, 2025
Despite Daly’s reservations, recent industry insights suggest Woods remains the most marketable player in men’s golf, even ahead of active stars like Scottie Scheffler, Rory McIlroy, Jordan Spieth, and Bryson DeChambeau. This was confirmed by a recent poll conducted by the Sports Business Journal (SBJ), which explored Woods’s current standing in terms of market appeal. Woods’s manager, Mark Steinberg, commented on his enduring influence, noting that although Woods no longer plays a full schedule, his brand power continues to generate significant attention. Whether it’s his involvement in business ventures like PopStroke and TGL or simply his limited appearances on the course, Woods still commands global attention.
Steinberg also emphasized that even if Woods decides to play on the PGA Tour Champions after turning 50, his legendary status will ensure high-profile coverage. According to him, “every shot” Woods takes still gets televised, regardless of his position on the leaderboard, and his association continues to attract sponsors and audiences alike.
Interestingly, while Daly is hesitant about Woods joining the senior ranks, other golf legends are eagerly awaiting his arrival. Mark Calcavecchia expressed enthusiasm earlier in the year, even joking that the Champions Tour should allow Woods to start playing early. Bernhard Langer, another Senior Tour mainstay, believes Woods will eventually play several events once eligible. Langer acknowledged that his own performance may decline by the time Woods joins, but he emphasized the immense value Woods brings to any tournament.
As the countdown to Tiger’s 50th birthday continues, the debate intensifies: Should he remain on the PGA Tour, continue his legacy among current stars, or embrace a new chapter on the Champions Tour, elevating it in the process? For now, the golf world is watching closely—and waiting to see what the GOAT decides.