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His return could last only one day. He could also advance to the weekend, where Woods might face as many as 36 holes a day.
“I didn’t think he would return at Match Play because the media would be all over him if he lost in the first round,” Appleby said. “But if Tiger lost in the first round, it would mean nothing to him. He’ll be looking for competitive rounds.”
Woods also has an endorsement contract with Accenture, and he was to be in Marana, Ariz., next week for a corporate dinner.
Kenny Perry believes expectations will be minimal — Woods’ first tournament in eight months, and the fickle nature of match play.
“I think it’s awesome,” Perry said. “The economy is down. We need something to boost us up. And there’s going to be a gazillion reporters there, so it will be fun to be around. That place is going to come to life.”
He also figures that Woods will do his part.
“I think he’ll be ready to rock,” Perry said. “When he comes back, he’s always raring to go. He must be spittin’ nails right now. I think he’ll be better than ever. He’ll probably kick our butts like crazy. Let’s face it. People play differently when they’re playing him.”
Unless someone withdraws — Justin Rose is one possibility because his wife is expecting their first child any day — Woods will play Brendan Jones of Australia in the first round.
Woods was playing some of the best golf of his career when he had reconstructive knee surgery. He had won nine of his last 12 tournaments and did not finish worse than fifth during that stretch.
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