Tiger Woods may be missing from this year’s Hero World Challenge, but the 15-time major champion is still making an impact behind the scenes. He’s brought in some interesting players for what looks to be an exciting tournament.
Spieth, Horschel, and Bhatia: Three Talents with Something to Prove
The final three spots for the elite 20-man invitational have gone to Jordan Spieth, Billy Horschel, and Akshay Bhatia, all of whom have something to prove. Each comes into the event after a disappointing PGA Tour season, none living up to the standards they have set for themselves. Now, they’re heading to the Hero World Challenge looking for answers and hoping to build some momentum.
Spieth knows what it takes to win this tournament. In 2014, he dominated the field with a 10-shot victory at Isleworth, which remains the largest margin in Hero World Challenge history. But that was a different time. Now, the three-time major winner is facing a challenging period in his career. Horschel recently returned to action but missed the cut at Wentworth. Bhatia, the young lefty who impressed with a T3 at The Players earlier in the season, has struggled to maintain that momentum in the latter half of the year.
Scheffler Eyes Historic Hero World Challenge Record in The Bahamas
They’ll face tough competition from a strong field led by Scottie Scheffler, who is aiming to make Hero World Challenge history. The World No. 1 has won the last two tournaments at Albany. If he wins a third straight title, he’ll be the first player ever to do so at this event. Even Tiger hasn’t achieved that. Only Scheffler, Woods, and Viktor Hovland have won it back-to-back.
Nine of the 2025 Ryder Cup players are teeing it up, along with Team USA captain Keegan Bradley and European vice-captain Alex Noren. The competitive fire will be fierce, but all eyes will be on Scheffler to see if he can deliver another dominant performance and further cement his standing at the top of the game.
Woods Watches from the Sidelines Amid Recovery
Woods will be absent for medical reasons. He recently had his seventh back surgery and is still recovering from an earlier Achilles procedure. There is hope he’ll return in time for The Masters, but his appearance at the PNC Championship with his son Charlie is now in serious doubt. The Hero World Challenge, which benefits the Tiger Woods Foundation, still carries his influence even when he’s not there.
With Woods out, along with Patrick Cantlay and Xander Schauffele also withdrawing, newcomers like Andrew Novak, JJ Spaun, and Chris Gotterup now have a chance to make their Hero debuts. With a $5 million purse, important world ranking points, and the pressure to finish the year strong, this year’s Hero World Challenge feels like much more than just an exhibition.
It’s a proving ground. And for some, it’s a lifeline.
