Tiger Woods’ private jet has reportedly returned to the United States from Switzerland, sparking speculation about his rehabilitation program just as the PGA Championship gets underway. The move suggests the golf legend may have departed his treatment facility earlier than initially anticipated.

Woods, 50, has been undergoing ‘intense physical and psychological attention’ at a rehab facility in Zurich, Switzerland, since April. This followed a challenging period earlier in the year, which saw him involved in a rollover crash on Jupiter Island, Florida, in March, and subsequently arrested for driving under the influence (DUI). A week prior to the crash, Woods had made a brief return to golf at TGL.

Following these events, Woods released a statement confirming his decision to step away from golf to focus on his recovery. “I know and understand the seriousness of the situation I find myself in today,” he said at the time. “I am stepping away for a period of time to seek treatment and focus on my health. This is necessary in order for me to prioritize my well-being and work toward lasting recovery.”

Rehab progress and early departure

Earlier this month, a source speaking to the Daily Mail indicated that Woods was showing encouraging signs in his rehab. “He’s got a pain management doctor who is helping him deal with his body pain without addictive opioids,” the source stated. “He calls or Zooms a small number of people: Vanessa, his kids, Mark Steinberg. He’s responding well to treatment, and Vanessa is very happy with what she’s hearing.” The source also mentioned Woods was on a “90-day programme” but had the option to leave whenever he chose.

Read also: Behind the delays: VAR's commercial value outweighs fan anger

It now appears Woods has exercised that option. TMZ reported that his private jet, which had flown from Florida to Zurich earlier in the week, departed Switzerland on Wednesday and touched down at Palm Beach International Airport in the evening. While it remains unconfirmed if Woods was on board, TMZ suggested there was “reason to believe the golf legend is on board.”

PGA Championship backdrop and future outlook

Woods’ return to the US coincides with the start of the PGA Championship at Aronimink Golf Club in Newtown Square, Pennsylvania, on Thursday. He will not be competing in the tournament, a major he has won on four occasions, with his last triumph coming 19 years ago in 2007. His most recent appearance was in 2024, where he missed the cut.

While his immediate competitive future remains uncertain, Woods is eligible to compete in the US Open and the US Senior Open later in the summer. However, United States Golf Association chief executive Mike Whan expressed skepticism about Woods’ participation in the near future. “I’d be super surprised,” Whan commented regarding Woods playing in any 2026 USGA championship. “It would be wonderful for the event, and if he was ready, it would be wonderful for him. Obviously, what he’s going through is much bigger than golf.”

Whan added, “He’s proven before that when he puts his mind to something, he’s going to be great at it. I’m sure he has a lot of years to play USGA championships. I don’t think he’s going to play in any 2026 USGA championship. If he ends up playing in USGA championships, great. But when I think of Tiger, my friend, that’s not really what’s important to me right now.”

Read also: Sacked Spurs boss' Thomas Frank and Ange Postecoglou lands BBC World Cup role

Sources: www.tmz.com

Read also: LeBron James weighs future after Lakers' early playoff exit