Paul Broadhurst has revealed that Tiger Woods is expected to join him on the PGA Champions Tour, where he will be able to use a buggy to help with his chronic walking pain.
Broadhurst, who has won and finished second in his last two appearances in the USA on the seniors tour, has taken his earnings this season to £580,000. Despite battling chronic arthritis in his ankle, the English ex-Ryder Cup star has won over £6million since joining the tour after turning 50.
Since last year, Broadhurst has been granted permission to use a buggy as he can no longer walk 18 holes due to his ankle condition, which requires medication and surgery. He believes that 15-time Major winner Woods will do the same when he turns 50 next year and joins the seniors, where anyone can now use a buggy if they wish.
Broadhurst, who will turn 59 in August, told the Mirror: “The tour are hoping Tiger is going to play the Champions Tour, no question. They are really hopeful and I think he has given out signs that he is more than happy to play once he turns 50.”
“He will be able to take a cart – that won’t be an issue for him. He will perhaps be looking forward to playing without walking around.
Golfing veteran Broadhurst has opened up about his ongoing battle with severe arthritis, which has been a significant hurdle in his career, especially after Woods’ struggle to walk four successive rounds post his car crash in 2021. Broadhurst, who recently clinched victory at the Invited Celebrity Classic, sympathised with Woods and revealed that using a buggy is the only reason he can continue playing.
Reflecting on his condition, Broadhurst said: “I keep taking the tablets. I have severe arthritis in my right ankle. Once I have perhaps retired, it will need operating on. At the moment I have been told it is a year to recover from but I haven’t got a year playing this game.
“I am 58 years of age. That will have to wait for a few more years. At the moment we are fortunately able to take a cart. I can get around that way and it doesn’t seem to be affecting my golf.”
Broadhurst also detailed how he manages his condition during play: “The foot is OK as long as I keep taking my medication. I put an anti-inflammatory strapping on which numbs it a bit and with the aid of the cart I am able to get around. If I had to walk 18 holes I would be really struggling.”
Woods recently addressed his condition at the Masters and admitted he is in daily pain. “I hurt every day,” he admitted.
Appearing on the Today Show this week, Woods revealed the secret that keeps him competing at the highest level despite his physical condition.
“A cold plunge, everyday. Religiously,” the 15-time major champion commented. Woods had outlined plans to play at last once a month this campaign, starting with February’s Genesis Invitational. He was forced to skip past March however, having withdrew from the Genesis weeks earlier after falling ill with influenza during his second round.
