Stricker tipping Woods to shine

STEVE Stricker believes Tiger Woods’ latest comeback is “for real” and he feels the former world No 1 could end his 10-year Major championship drought in next week’s Masters.

Woods competed just 24 times in four years as he struggled with back injuries and off-course issues but has played five events in 2018 and recorded consecutive top-five finishes.

The 42-year-old underwent spinal fusion surgery in April 2017, his fourth back operation in the space of three years, and said he is pain free for the first time in years.

Stricker, who needs to win this week’s Shell Houston Open to join Woods in the field at Augusta National, said: “As far as Tiger goes, I played a nine-hole practice round with him at Valspar. This is for real this time, I think, this comeback.

“He’s looking good, he feels good, he’s talking good about his game and himself and how he feels. So it’s exciting to see. He’s walking with a bounce in his step like he did when he was kicking everybody’s butt.

“It wouldn’t surprise me one bit if he wins again this year. It could be next time at Augusta, who knows?

“It’s fun to watch. You know, it’s brought a lot more attention to our game again when he’s in there playing, especially playing well.”

Stricker finished 12th in the Valspar Championship, where Woods was runner-up to Paul Casey, but has also been competing on the Champions Tour and won his second straight event in Mississippi last week.

“I’m excited the way I’m playing,” the 51-year-old added.

“I played all four of the Majors last year and I’m not in any of them this year, so I’ve got some work cut out if I want to play in some of those.

“It’s a long shot to win but, hopefully, I’ll play well and see what happens.”