Five-time Masters champion Tiger Woods hits balls at the practice facility Sunday afternoon at Augusta National Golf Club. Rob Schumacher-USA TODAY Sports

Tiger Woods impressing in practice ahead of Masters?

By Chelena Goldman | Last updated 4/4/22

Tiger Woods may have said he is a " game-time decision" to compete in the Masters, which gets underway this Thursday, but that hasn't simmered excitement surrounding the prospect of the 15-time major winner making a return to the links.

With Augusta National closed to the press on both Sunday and Monday, it's still only speculation at this point how Woods looks playing a full 18 holes -- let alone doing it multiple days in a row. Nonetheless, those able to get a glance at him practicing can't help but be excited about how good the 46-year-old looks in practice.

Just watched Tiger Woods on the range here at Augusta National. Warm-up lasted less than 20 mins. Worked from wedges up to driver.

He did NOT MISS A SHOT. Every shot was flushed. Has not lost any speed
— Evin Priest (@EvinPriest) April 3, 2022

Stories have leaked out -- surprise surprise -- that he looks as sharp as he did prior to a car accident 14 months ago that threatened not just his career but his life.

Billy Horschel watched Tiger hit balls Sunday, and estimates Tiger carried his driver 290.

"He looked like the Tiger we saw before the accident, the way the swing looked and the speed.

"For him to hopefully be playing – which I think he is – I think we’re all giddy about it."
— Sean Martin (@PGATOURSMartin) April 3, 2022

Of course, Woods competing in the event is no indication as to how he'll compete in general -- he would still be a long shot to make it all the way to the final round on Sunday. Still, given his surprise Masters victory in 2019, it's hard not to get excited that he might rock the green jacket yet again.

More must-reads: