Tiger Woods dubs himself a 'walking miracle' ahead of Masters return

Tiger Woods has described himself as a "walking miracle" ahead of his first Masters appearance since undergoing spinal fusion surgery.

The former world number one, who has not featured at the Augusta event since 2015, has been tipped as one of the favourites for next week's tournament despite persistent back problems at one point threatening his golfing career.

"I'm starting to put the pieces together," Woods told his official website.

"I got a second chance on life [with the spinal surgery]. I am a walking miracle.

"I'm just there to win. I've been better with each week I've competed. A little more crisp.

"I'm just really looking forward to playing at the Masters. It's the best run tournament in the world. The golf course, the patrons, the entire atmosphere. It's a golfer's heaven."

Woods has won the Masters five times during his illustrious career.