Tiger Woods practices at Augusta ahead of last-minute Masters decision - in pictures

Tiger Woods sent the golf world into meltdown on Sunday after the 15-time major champion raised hopes he could compete at this week's Masters.

Woods is continuing his recovery from serious leg injuries he suffered in a car crash in February 2021, and after previously playing down his chances of making an imminent return to professional golf, announced on social media that he could play the season's first major, starting Thursday.

"I will be heading up to Augusta today to continue my preparation and practice. It will be a game-time decision on whether I compete," Woods said Sunday on Twitter.

Photos have now been released that show Woods in the practice area and on the driving range at Augusta National as he continues to test out his fitness ahead of the Masters.

During his practice session, Woods was seen with PGA Tour player Billy Horschel, who said the former world No 1 looked ready to compete at Augusta.

“He looked good to me,” Horschel told PGATour.com. “He looked like the Tiger we saw before the accident … the way the swing looked and the speed.

“For him to even be here this week, and hopefully be playing – which I think he is – I think we’re all giddy about it."

Woods has won five of his 15 majors at the Masters, including his most recent in 2019 when he completed a previously remarkable comeback from career-threatening back injuries.