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Woods sets sights on Tokyo 2020: 'Olympic team is a big goal'

Stuart Franklin / Getty Images Sport / Getty

Tiger Woods has accomplished almost everything during his illustrious career. However, representing the United States at the Olympics is one feat that remains unchecked, and Tokyo 2020 will likely be his last shot.

"Making the Olympic team is a big goal," Woods told Reuters, according to the Guardian. "I don't see myself having too many opportunities other than next year. Four years from now, at the next Olympic Games, I'll be 48-years-old. To be one of the top Americans at that age is going to be tough."

Woods was away from golf when the sport debuted at the 2016 Olympics in Brazil. He didn't play any tournaments that year while recovering from back surgery.

"I went to my first Olympic Games when it was in Los Angeles (in 1984). So now to have the opportunity to be a part of the Olympics, because golf in my lifetime wasn't a part of the Olympics, is an important aspect for us and the growth of the game," Tiger continued. "The game has become so global, and so reaching, that I think the Olympic Games is a great extension of that and I'd like to be a part of it."

The 43-year-old sits sixth in points for the American team and will have some work to do prior to the June 22 qualification deadline to guarantee himself a spot. The top four from each country qualify for Tokyo 2020, with a maximum of 60 players competing for the gold medal.

Tiger will get his taste of golf in Japan next week. He will play in The Challenge: Japan Skins prior to competing in the inaugural Zozo Championship, which begins Oct. 24.

The golf component of Tokyo 2020 begins July 30.

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