It may not be a make or break year for Tiger Woods, but 2010 will certainly define the second half of his career.
When he returns and how he performs will be indicators as to both the man and the player.
Return soon, before the Masters say, and it will be clear his focus is on resuming his career with little interruption. Extend that beyond at least one major tournament and he’ll be saying he’s putting his family in front of his job.
On the course, if he’s able to post low numbers, win a tournament early in his return or at least play to the level that has defined Tiger Woods and he’ll not only quiet the galleries that are certain to be vocal in some parts, but show, too, that his game is still on another level.
But struggle, which would be understood, if not expected, given the emotional baggage that could also be in play with possible divorce proceedings and the rebuilding of his personal life, and his position as the world’s No. 1 player, not just statistically but actually, will become tenuous.
