Tiger Woods says he expects it will be two full years before his injured ligament is fully healed, but also says he thinks he’ll be ready for the Masters next year, though not at full speed, obviously.

“I’ll have six months off from surgery,” Woods told ESPN. “That puts me into January. And another four months puts me pretty much at 10 months. That’s a long time. I figure I can come back after 10 months.”

Woods is basing his comments partly on how long it takes other athletes to come back from such injuries.

“Generally, it’s six to nine months when football players are able to come back and compete and play. And if they can do it at that level, I hope I can do it in golf.”

Woods said he is being cautious with his injury, and following doctor’s orders.

I’ve said before I think Woods’ chase of Jack Nickalus’ 18 wins in the majors is over, and I still believe that. Woods admitted he will have to tinker with his swing. Two full years before his injury is healed – PLUS tinkering with his swing.

Nicklaus’ record is safe for the foreseeable future.

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