Having made about as many "comebacks" now as majors won, there was something different about Tiger Woods' latest return to golf.
Taking part in the Hero World Challenge tournament, reports of his most recent back surgery arrived with Woods' own assurances that this time, perhaps, it was different.
Needless to say, there was plenty of excitement surrounding the return of golf's most recognisable player.
The wait is over. The wait is over. @TigerWoods
— Stephen Curry (@StephenCurry30) November 30, 2017
Pumped to be watching @TigerWoods back out there!!!
— Michael Phelps (@MichaelPhelps) November 30, 2017
It's a great day to see @TigerWoods back on the golf course!
— Bo Jackson (@BoJackson) November 30, 2017
Claiming that he was once again capable of playing golf for "fun", Woods' start to proceedings in a competitive environment has been promising to say the least.
Approaching the 9th in his first round today, Woods was tied 10th at -1. By rounds end, he had made it down to -3 and was tied 7th, 3 shots off the lead.
As always with Woods, there has been plenty to get the baited crowd excited.
Never a doubt, @TigerWoods ⤵️
0 bogeys
2 birdies
2 back pic.twitter.com/Teh4M1sZpe— Golf Channel (@GolfChannel) November 30, 2017
Without the slightest hint of the grimacing that had become part and parcel of Woods' game during recent comeback attempts, viewers were even treated to the "fist pump" after saving par on the 4th.
There's the fist pump!
Huge par save on No. 4 for @TigerWoods.#QuickHits pic.twitter.com/Z15iCSgZxu
— PGA TOUR (@PGATOUR) November 30, 2017
While it will undoubtedly take Woods longer than a round of golf to rediscover the form of old (if he can manage it all), some very big names are taking great joy in seeing the 14-time Major winner operating in a manner that few thought they would see again.
Such a great feeling watching @TigerWoods healthy, strong and playing some beautiful golf again! Oh how I and golf have missed you 🔝🏌🏻♂️
— John Arne Riise (@JARiiseOfficial) November 30, 2017
Tiger is back! @TigerWoods ⛳️
— Robert Lewandowski (@lewy_official) November 30, 2017
Tough to argue with those last 2 ball speeds from @TigerWoods if data is correct. 180 and 178 mph ball speed. Proper fast. Looks less underneath on way down for sure. Maybe he IS back!!
— Graeme McDowell (@Graeme_McDowell) November 30, 2017
Great seeing Tiger back in action he’s definitely great for the game of golf! Wishing @TigerWoods nothing but the best of luck! @TGRLiveEvents 🏆#HeroWorldChallenge
— John Daly (@PGA_JohnDaly) November 30, 2017
Tiger rolls in the 25-footer for birdie on 8. Smooth as silk. It's happening, guys.
— Jason Sobel (@JasonSobelTAN) November 30, 2017
Cheers to red on Sundays, fist pumps, club twirls, and not laying up.. welcome back, Tiger!! 🐅⛳️ #goodforgolf
— Rhys Hoskins (@rhyshoskins) November 30, 2017
Still early days, how Woods reacts to the strains of playing for an extended period will be of great interest to those who wish to see him back competing for majors.
For now, we are as well to enjoy while we can.
