Where Tiger Will Return?

There have been conflicting reports about the return of Tiger Woods to the world of golf.

The New York Post is reporting that Tiger will return at the Arnold Palmer Invitational at Bay Hill. Meanwhile, ESPN's Tom Rinaldi is stating that Woods is set for his return at Augusta National for The Masters. His report is in line with an Associated Press story. One other source, longtime friend of Woods Mark O'Meara, say he "wouldn't be surprised" if Tiger resurfaced at the Tavistock Cup.

All three have pros and cons and all three are highly likely.

The Tavistock Cup is particularly interesting. First, only members of Isleworth and Lake Nona communities and special invited guests are able to attend. That limits the chances for a security breech. Well, unless your a member of Isleworth that felt somewhat intruded by the incident from November. Also, the Tavistock Cup is more of a competition than a tournament. It's also only two days in length. It is held the Monday and Tuesday before the Arnold Palmer Invitational.

Arnie's tournament presents more potential security issues than the other two. Tickets can be obtained by the general public and passes can be purchased to other extending areas of the course. The big plus is the relationship between Palmer and Tiger. That and the fact that Tiger has won there 6 times. It's a course that's surely to stir positive memories for Woods. It's been reported that Palmer has said Tiger will be at Bay Hill.

The Masters possesses the greatest of both worlds...to an extent. There is an extremely high chance that any unwanted guests will be unable to attend. There is a waiting list to obtain any tickets/badges for entrance. Plus, you know Augusta National will not issue any extra press credentials to those that normally do not attend. The reality of this situation is that Augusta National doesn't care nor should they. It is hallowed ground in the world of golf and they strictly adhere to their own set of rules.

The only negative is not reflective of The Masters, but of Tiger. Coming back at a major may place undue pressure upon him by himself and us. It may wind up being counter-productive if Woods plays poorly.

Here's the funny thing. This is all strictly conjecture. Woods recent hiring of Ari Fleischer as a consultant and the fact that Hank Haney is in Orlando has fueled the fires of speculation. Remember what Woods said during his "speech". Even he wasn't sure then and that was only three weeks ago.

One thing can be duly noted. It will be only when and where Tiger wants...as always.