So, is Tiger Woods’ return simply a case of a super-elite performer battling against the odds to return to the top of their sport at the age of 42? Or is it the realisation that whilst we fete the ability of younger and younger performers to excel, we forget that sport can be a lifelong pursuit (at any level). It is not just a game for global megastars, but one for everyone. Recent work and reviews undertaken by the Golf and Health project have highlighted that, as a form of physical activity, golf offers an exceptional chance to engage physically, socially and mentally. Not just from the angle of equipment engineering, technology and performance, but also from the perspective of psychology, motor skill development, skill learning, and also (more importantly in the 21st century) health and wellbeing. The element of science and research on sports performance is uncompromising and there is a considerable (and growing) amount of work around our understanding of the science of golf performance. The fact that he returned and then in 2018 carded his best final round at The Open, followed by his first win in a Tour event since 2013 is even more extraordinary. For any player to make a comeback after undergoing 4 back operations in 2 years, spinal fusion, and also treatment for drug addiction - is remarkable. It is one of the few sports where age (and also recovery from injury) appear to be no barrier to participation, nor elite performance (as Tom Watson has proved, almost winning the Open in 2009 aged 59). With millions of dollars being invested at all levels of the game, the role and understanding of golf as a sport for all levels of participant, across all ages, is clear. Personal controversy aside, Woods’ re-emergence as a force in world golf is testament to the science and understanding of the game, as well as growing research evidence within the sport. This is a truly remarkable return from one of the greatest players of all time who was ranked 1,199th in the world just 1 year ago. Not only is this a personal triumph after his very public fall from grace, but also a triumph over the significant back and leg injury problems (and multiple surgeries) he has faced in recent years. However, what is even more remarkable about this Ryder Cup is the recent recovery and performance of Tiger Woods. There are very few high level sports events where the average age of the players is in their mid 30s, and where 4 are in their 40s (with one close to 50). The recent Ryder Cup in France is testament to this.
The longevity of golfers and their continued ‘elite’ level performance is largely unparalleled in sport.