Tiger Woods hits 71 in Masters comeback to sit three shots behind first-round leader Cameron Smith

Back playing the Masters after a career-threatening car crash, Tiger Woods says he can win a sixth Green Jacket, making a few more believers by carding an opening-round 71. 

In his first competitive round of golf in 508 days, Woods mixed three birdies with two bogeys at Augusta National to sit three behind Australian Cameron Smith, who has continued his hot form to capture the clubhouse lead with a birdie-filled first round at the Masters.

Although the year's first major featured all of golf's best, there was only one man most had come to see: the world's 973rd ranked player, Woods.

It was a remarkable effort from the 15-times major champion just 14 months after doctors had considered the possibility of having to amputate his right leg, which was mangled in a single-car accident.

«I fought back and for the day to end up in the red. I am right where I need to be,» Woods said.

«I figured once the adrenaline kicks in and I got fired up and I got into my little world I should be able to handle business.»

Woods said he was prepared to play with pain and at times noticeably limped as he made his way around the undulating layout regarded as one of the toughest walks on the PGA Tour.

The 46-year-old, wearing a pink shirt and black pants, had his game face on as he walked out to the first tee where the entire length of the par-four 445-yard opening hole was lined with thousands of spectators.

After five consecutive pars, Woods nearly aced the par-three sixth hole where his tee shot stopped two feet from the cup to set up his first birdie which was followed by his first bogey at the eighth.

Even par entering Amen Corner, Woods made it through the infamous stretch of holes unscathed, picking up his second birdie at 13.

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