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LOS ANGELES. — Tiger Woods has admitted that he might never return to competitive golf. Woods also said he was “optimistic” about his golfing future while at the same time publicly acknowledging what has been obvious for some time, that he might never return to competitive golf. The American former world No. 1 won the last of his 14 major titles in 2008 and the 41-year-old has only played six competitive rounds in the past two years while trying to recover from multiple back surgeries.

On the day Rory McIlroy revealed plans for a full body MOT and a three-month sabbatical, former world No. 1 Woods said: “I don’t know what the future holds for me. I don’t know what 100 percent healthy means after eight surgeries, but I’ll try to get as close as I can to that.

“Is anybody in their 40s ever going to feel like they did in their 20s? Exactly. At the moment I’m just hitting 60-yard shots.”

The American former world No. 1 won the last of his 14 major titles in 2008 and the 41-year-old has only played six competitive rounds in the past two years while trying to recover from multiple back surgeries.

Speaking on the eve of the Presidents Cup, Woods was peppered with questions during a news conference with his three assistant Presidents Cup captains and the four International assistants, who often looked bored at the focus stayed on the second most prolific major champion of all time.

It was his first press conference since he was arrested close to his Florida home in May under suspicion of driving under the influence of drugs.

Toxicology reports revealed he had several prescription drugs in his system at the time.

Woods, who looked strong and outwardly healthy, said the desire to have fun was fuelling his drive to return to competition.

“I’ve been competing in golf tournaments since I was four years old. It’s always been fun for me,” he said.

“Overall, I’m very optimistic how I’m progressing. — Mailonline.