Tiger Woods' absence dominated pre‑tournament chatter at Augusta, even though he did not step onto the first tee. The former world No.1 is still recovering from back surgery, an Achilles operation and a March car‑crash DUI case that led to a not‑guilty plea and a self‑imposed break from competition. Players on the course repeatedly referenced his missing presence.

Veterans Jason Day, Patrick Reed and Justin Rose all voiced how strange it feels to watch a hero grapple with pain and legal woes. Day recalled Tiger Woods’ 25‑30 surgeries and the isolation that comes with fame, while Reed simply wished a speedy recovery. Rose stressed that the sport loses stature whenever legends like Tiger Woods or Phil Mickelson sit out, the latter withdrawing for a family health matter.

The PGA Tour and Masters chairman Fred Ridley sent public support, noting the game needs its icons back. Harris English and Bubba Watson echoed optimism, calling Woods a fighter who will emerge stronger. With only 11 tournament starts since late 2020 and a last‑place finish at the 2024 Masters, the 50‑year‑old’s next appearance remains the most anticipated storyline of the week.