Tiger Woods Announces Withdrawal from Hero World.. Tiger Woods, still recovering from his September back surgery, has opted out of this year's Hero World Challenge. Expressing disappointment on social media, he confirmed that Justin Thomas, Jason Day, and Nick Dunlap will be exempted. Last year, Woods finished 18th in the tournament. Following his sixth back surgery to address nerve impingement, he remains hopeful for recovery and rehabilitation. His return to competitive golf remains uncertain, but he has consistently participated in the PNC Championship with his son Charlie each December. #tigerwoods,#golfrecovery,#heroworldchallenge