Tiger Woods Makes Masters Cut Despite Painful Round
Tiger Woods defied expectations Friday by making the cut at the 2026 Masters Tournament, finishing his second round at Augusta National just under the projected cut line. The 50-year-old golf legend battled visible discomfort during his 1-over 73 but secured his record 24th consecutive Masters cut, surpassing Gary Player and Fred Couples.
The five-time Masters champion grimaced through several swings, particularly on Augusta's hilly terrain, yet managed crucial pars on holes 16-18 to stay at 3-over for the tournament. Woods' resilience sparked immediate reactions across social media, with fans and fellow players praising his determination. The moment trended nationwide as broadcast cameras showed Woods receiving treatment from his caddie between shots.
Woods' performance comes just three years after his near-fatal 2021 car accident that required extensive leg reconstruction. His ability to compete at Augusta - where elevation changes place exceptional strain on his right leg - has become an annual storyline in professional golf. ESPN reported a 38% viewership increase during Woods' Friday afternoon round.
Tournament officials confirmed Woods will tee off Saturday morning alongside rising star Tom Kim. Weather forecasts predict challenging conditions, with 20 mph winds expected to test players' endurance. Woods last won the Masters in 2019, completing one of sports' greatest comeback stories.
The golf world now watches whether Woods can sustain his physical stamina through the weekend. His presence guarantees heightened attention for CBS' weekend coverage, with advertisers reportedly paying premium rates for commercial slots during his playing windows. Augusta National merchandise shops reported brisk sales of Woods-branded items Friday evening.
Woods briefly addressed reporters after his round, stating: "The leg held up okay today, but it's Augusta - every step counts." His longtime rival Phil Mickelson tweeted: "24 straight cuts at Augusta. There's tough, then there's @TigerWoods tough." The Masters committee moved the cut line to low-50 players and ties (plus anyone within 10 strokes of the lead) at 8:15 PM ET, officially confirming Woods' weekend participation.
