Tiger Woods undergoes back surgery to reduce pain, aims for return

Tiger Woods announced Thursday that he underwent another back surgery to reduce ongoing pain in his back and lower leg.

"The surgery went well, and I'm optimistic this will relieve my back spasms and pain," Woods said in a statement. "When healed, I look forward to getting back to a normal life, playing with my kids, competing in professional golf and living without the pain I have been battling so long."

Dr. Richard Guyer of the Center for Disc Replacement performed the surgery, and said the 41-year-old should eventually return to competition. The statement adds that while each case is different, patients typically return to full activity about six months after the procedure.

"After he recovers from surgery, he will gradually begin his rehabilitation until he is completely healed," Guyer said. "Once that's accomplished, his workouts will be geared to allowing him to return to competitive golf."

Woods, who's only played three competitive rounds this season, has now undergone four back surgeries since 2014.

"I would like to thank all the fans for staying in touch and their kind wishes," Woods said. "The support I have received has never waned, and it really helps."