There have been few signs of inactivated ‘glutes’ or chipping ‘yips’ for Tiger Woods as he returns to professional golf this week for the Masters Tournament. Tiger has taken up much of the pre-tournament hype in America, which highlights the interest that follows him everywhere he goes. Refreshingly, Tiger has been in good spirit in practice this week. Previously, he has been known for going for practice rounds at 5am to avoid crowds and avoid signing autographs. This week, the four-time Masters champion has embraced the galleries and smiled his way through practice. He is even taking part in the par 3 contest before the tournament with his kids at his side and has played a practice round with old pal Mark O’Meara, rekindling an old friendship that had strained in recent years.

A more open and relaxed Tiger reminds golf fans of the young Tiger that blitzed the pro golf circuit and inspired so many to pick up the game. He still has his traditional competitive edge as well, as evidenced by his pre-tournament interviews in which he stated that he expected to win the tournament. His demeanour suggests that he is at ease with his game.

Can he realistically do it? It is hard to escape some hard facts. Woods is now outside the top 100 in the world. The last time he had a top 10 finish in any tournament was in 2013. He is yet to post an under-par round this season. His performances this season have been dreadful. In reality, it is more likely for Tiger to miss the cut than to win the tournament. It is also ten years since Tiger won the Masters and he has come into this tournament in better form almost every time.

According to Woods, he has ‘worked his ass off’ to get his game in shape for the Masters. He indicated that he would not return to the game until he was satisfied that he had a game with which he could compete. In light of this, a top 10 finish for Woods could be exactly what the doctor ordered. Even if the swing clicks for him and he shoots a sub-70 round, the chances of maintaining that level for four rounds with no tournament sharpness is very slim. A Tiger returning with a positive attitude, who manages his game, particularly his short game around Augusta greens, could be a threat in major championships later in the year. Many fans will just be happy to see him out there. Whether he is winning tournaments or pulling out of them, he remains one of the most intriguing figures in the game.