On Feb. 23 at 9 am CT, Tiger Woods, a famous and revolutionary golfer, was involved in a single-vehicle crash in Los Angeles, California.

   After this horrible crash, Woods, aged 45, had to undergo several hours of surgery to repair what doctors labeled as “significant orthopedic injuries” to his lower right leg and ankle.

    Dr. Anish Mahajan, the chief medical officer and CEO of Harbor-UCLA Medical Centeron, posted a statement on Woods’ Twitter at 11:30 CT on Wednesday, Feb. 24.

    “Comminuted open fractures affecting both the upper and lower portions of the tibia and fibula bones were stabilized by inserting a rod into the tibia,” said Mahajan. “Additional injuries to the bones of the foot and ankle were stabilized with a combination of screws and pins. Trauma to the muscle and soft-tissue of the leg required surgical release of the covering of the muscles to relieve pressure due to swelling.”

    Woods had just come off of getting back surgery in December and was in LA to get his back checked out again.

    Other stars of the golf world had input to give on the matter.

    “It hurts to see one of your closest friends get in an accident.”, said American golfer Justin Thomas. “Man, I just hope he’s all right. Just worried for his kids. I’m sure they’re struggling.”

    Jack Nicklaus, another American golfer, had this to say about the accident:

   “[My wife] Barbara and I just heard about Tiger’s accident, and like everyone else, we are deeply concerned. We want to offer him our heartfelt support and prayers at this difficult time.  Please join us in wishing Tiger a successful surgery and all the best for a full recovery.”

    Many Woods fans, but also PGA fans, are curious about his return to golf. They wonder how long it will take for him to return or if he’ll return at all.

    After input from many experienced surgeons, they all agree that a return to everyday life is very likely for Tiger, and a return to elite-level golf isn’t out of the question either.

    “Tiger has a very, very, very long road to recovery ahead,” said orthopedic surgeon Dr. Kirk Campbell. “And based on the information we have, returning to being an elite golfer would be very challenging. But I would not root against him.”

    Hopefully, Woods can make an easy and smooth transition back into normal life and begin golfing again soon. Let’s hope that the doctors give him the care he needs to make that return.