Tiger Woods is back in the game, digitally at least.
Woods has signed a long-term partnership with the company behind the PGA Tour 2K video game series, returning the 15-time main champion to an industry he once dominated with EA Sports.
The settlement was announced Tuesday, nearly a month after Woods suffered career-threatening leg injuries when a pickup truck crashed on a steep highway in suburban Los Angeles.
Woods may never return to the PGA Tour, where his 82 wins are tied with Sam Snead for most of the time, but his name and likeness will be used exclusively in the PGA Tour 2K franchise. Woods was not among the players included in last year’s 2K game, and it is unclear if he will be added or if his name or image will be used on the cover. A press release from 2K said only that Woods would be CEO and consultant.
Woods has been associated with EA Sports for 15 years, and the Tiger Woods PGA Tour series is among the most successful sports video games ever. Woods and EA Sports parted ways in 2013, four years after news of Woods’ extramarital affairs tarnished his public image.
EA Sports rebuilt the game from scratch and put Rory McIlroy on the cover in 2015, but the reboot received poor reviews. EA Sports has not produced a golf game since.
“I am eager to return to the gaming landscape, and with 2K and HB Studios, I have found the right partners to make this happen,” Woods said in a statement released by 2K. “I am honored to participate in this opportunity and I look forward to sharing my experience and knowledge as we build the future of golf video games together.”