Tiger Woods embarks on the latest stage of his comeback at the Wells Fargo Championship on Thursday, refreshed from an extended post-Masters break and still thankful for the back surgery that saved his career.
The 14-time major winner has not played since finishing tied for 32nd at Augusta National last month, and returns to Quail Hollow Club in Charlotte, North Carolina this week for the first time since 2012.
The 42-year-old former world number one told reporters on Wednesday he had benefited from an extended break from golf following Augusta.
"I threw my clubs in the closet for about 10 days, got away from the game," Woods said. "I didn't touch a club, didn't make a golf swing. Then I started to lift a little bit, to get my muscle strength back and eventually my speed. I've got it all back now.
"It felt great. It felt good to just shut it down, to reflect, analyse, and try and think about how I can win events." Woods only returned to the USPGA Tour this season after missing most of the previous two years through back injury.
His return following back fusion surgery has prompted an outpouring of goodwill from fans and fellow players, something Woods is still savouring.
"I've sensed it since I started playing this year," Woods said. "I've been away from the game for a few years. The support's been incredible.
"From the fans, to the players, the guys that I grew up playing against on the Champions Tour, the players that have emerged since I've been away. From one generation to the other, at both ends of the spectrum, it's been incredible."
'Thankful to be back' -
"There was a long period of time where I didn't think I would ever play golf again. I was just hoping I could walk without pain. And now I'm out here playing against these guys."
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