The PGA Tour's policy board has approved a special exemption for Woods, recognizing his outstanding career of more than 80 wins. This exemption allows him to participate in the eight signature tournaments for the rest of his career. These events feature major prizes and limited fields.
At 48, Woods has 15 major titles among his 82 PGA Tour wins, but has played a limited schedule due to numerous injuries. In recent years he has not automatically qualified for these events. Since his return to the 2022 Masters, Woods has competed in just nine official PGA Tour events, mostly majors. The only non-major event he has participated in is the Genesis Invitational, which he hosts.
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This year, Woods has struggled with his performances. He withdrew from one event, finished last among those making the cut at the Masters and missed the cut at both the PGA Championship and the US Open.
The PGA Tour wants Woods to play in major tournaments and has made it easier by creating a lifetime achievement exemption category. This category guarantees Woods spots in all flagship events starting next season. This change also allows tournament hosts to offer sponsor exemptions to other players.
In addition, the policy board approved changes for signing events, including hosting 72 players and maintaining a roster of alternate players in the event of withdrawals. These changes will be introduced in 2025.
While some might see this exemption as opportunities undeserved for Woods, his 82 career wins and ability to draw large crowds justify the decision. That doesn't mean Woods will play every flagship event or all four majors every season. His schedule will likely be limited, but he now has more freedom to choose his tournaments.
Woods' next and final start for 2024 is expected to be at The Open at Royal Troon in July.
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