check in every week for the unfiltered opinions of our writers and editors as they break down the hottest topics in the sport, and join the conversation by tweeting us at @golf_com.This week, we discuss Xander Schauffele‘s return to the winner’s circle, Jeeno Thitikul breaking an LPGA streak, fromer pros playing in the U.S. mid-Am, Tiger Woods’ latest surgery and more.

Xander Schauffele won the first two majors of his career last season but was winless in an injury-plagued 2025 – until this weekend, when he won the Baycurrent Classic in Japan by beating Max Greyserman, who has now finished runner-up on tour five times and is still without a victory. Who needed Sunday’s trophy more – Schauffele or Greyserman?

Sean Zak,senior writer (@sean_zak): The correct answer is probably Greyserman,as we’ve seen when it comes to guys needing to get over that first-victory hump. but Schauffele had genuinely battled some confidence issues throughout this year. Remember, it was Xander who we counted on to mount any serious defense to scottie Scheffler’s war on pro golfers. Schauffele considered himself a couple pegs below.

Jeeno Thitikul’s history-stopping comeback win meant something more

Zak: It is indeed not the parity. I promise you it is not the parity. TV ratings, overall interest, etc. will back it up.The LPGA needs at least one, if not two or three front-runners that are locking horns against each other and setting some standard for players 5-30 to fight for.

Piastowski: the depth of talent on the LPGA is stunning – but greatness sells. You tune in for Tom Brady. for Michael Jordan. For Nelly Korda. The hope, I would think, is that the players around her will push her to even greater heights.

Sens: A fiery rivalry is best.That obviously requires a rare kind of talent, but also certain personality types. I’ve heard some grousers complain of Scottie Scheffler’s “Pete Sampras” effect-dominance without flash or a full embrace of the spotlight can have a dulling effect. As Sean says, the LPGA needs a player like Korda at her best-ideally with a few foils around her.

2025 U.S. Mid-Amateur champ Brandon Holtz joined GOLF’s Subpar podcast to break down his mid-am title and playing Augusta and he also discussed the controversial topic regarding former pros regaining amateur status. At the U.S. mid-Am, 14 of the final 16 players were former pros. Do you have any issue with this? Should it be harder for pros to regain amateur status?

(By: Josh Schrock)

Netflix’s ‘Full Swing’ Golf Series coming Back for 4th Season

Zak: As much variability as possible in results of shots from TGL.Whatever you think is a lot, I want more. And as for Full Swing, my attention span for that show is pretty minimal now. I’m not the audience they’re chasing, though! So if I were asking for something, it would be hyper-narrow focus on all the ways the PGA Tour is DIFFERENT from F1 or the ATP Tour.Because the same company has produced a lot of the same docu-follows on pro sports, these world tours all seem like slightly different cousins when in reality they’re very, very different.

Piastowski: To the first question, the answer is yes. Golf on a Monday night in the dead of winter, as TGL provides, is som

Tiger Woods’ Future: Beyond Competitive Golf

The question of when Tiger Woods will fully retire from competitive golf is constantly debated. While a full return to a regular PGA Tour schedule seems increasingly unlikely due to ongoing physical limitations, Woods’ future in golf is far from over. Recent insights from golf analysts suggest a shift towards roles outside of active competition, focusing on mentorship, broadcasting, and potentially leadership positions within emerging golf formats.

The Physical realities

Woods has openly discussed the challenges his body faces following multiple surgeries, notably to his leg and back. His appearances in tournaments have become increasingly infrequent, and his performance is understandably affected by his physical condition. He acknowledges the limitations and is adapting his expectations accordingly. As he stated, his priority is now balancing his passion for the game with the realities of his physical health.

Potential Future Roles

Several avenues appear open for Woods to remain involved in golf without the grueling demands of professional competition:

• TGL Captain/Owner: woods is already involved with TGL, a tech-infused golf league. He’s likely to take on a non-playing captain role, leveraging his strategic mind and understanding of the game.
• Ryder Cup Captaincy (Eventually): While 2027 may be focused on his son Charlie’s college golf career, a future Ryder Cup captaincy remains a possibility. However,analysts suggest this isn’t his immediate priority.
• Golf Dad/Coach: Woods has expressed a desire to support his son, Charlie, as he progresses in golf, potentially taking on a coaching or supportive role.
• Broadcasting/Commentary: his deep understanding of the game and compelling personality would make him a valuable addition to any golf broadcast team.
• Champions Tour (with Cart): The Champions Tour allows for the use of golf carts, which could alleviate some of the physical strain on Woods.

Analysts’ Perspectives

Golf analysts like Zak and Piastowski believe woods’ focus will shift towards supporting his son’s golf career and embracing roles that don’t require the same physical exertion as competitive play. the emphasis is on enjoying the game in a different capacity and contributing to its growth in new ways.

Key Takeaways

• Tiger Woods’ competitive playing schedule will likely remain limited due to ongoing physical issues.
• He is actively exploring opportunities outside of competition,including roles with TGL and potentially broadcasting.
• Supporting his son, Charlie’s, golf career is a critically important priority for Woods.
• A future Ryder cup captaincy isn’t out of the question, but isn’t his immediate focus.

Publication Date: 2025/10/13 02:31:04

Looking ahead, Tiger Woods’ legacy will extend beyond his remarkable achievements as a player.He is poised to become a significant figure in shaping the future of golf, utilizing his expertise and influence in innovative ways. his transition will be watched closely by fans and industry professionals alike, as he navigates this new chapter with the same determination and passion that defined his playing career.