“I don’t think people really understand,” Woods said. “Some of the players who are close to me have seen some of the pictures and the things that I have had to endure. They appreciate it probably more than anyone else because they know what it takes to do this out here at this level.

“It’s one thing to play with my son at a hit-and-giggle [in the PGA Tour’s parent and child event last December], but it’s another thing to play in a major. Even a month ago I didn’t know if I could pull this off. I’ve got some work to do and I’m looking forward to it.”

His last statement might not have been completely based in reality, because he recognised the dark moments he encountered in his recovery and rehab. “The days I feel good are the easy days, but there have been more tough days. I just have to work through it, and like golf, in order to get better, you just have to go out there and put in the time. The hard part is the recovery sessions. Hopping in those ice baths, doing those a number of times a day. Those do really suck – but it works.”

There will be plenty more of those sessions in the coming weeks and that could spell bad news for next month’s USPGA Championship at Southern Hills, the Tulsa layout where he lifted the Wanamaker Trophy in 2006. 

“St Andrews is somewhere that is near and dear to my heart. I’ve won two Opens there, it’s the home of golf and it’ll be a special year to  be playing – I will be there,” Woods said. ”But I don’t know about the tournaments in between. I will try to be ready for Southern Hills [and the US Open at Brookline in June] but I honestly don’t know what will be possible.”

As a wounded veteran busily redefining what is and is not impossible, nobody should write off Woods for the USPGA until he, himself, makes an announcement. This is the way it will be for Woods who reiterated the point that “I will never again play a full schedule”.

What is certain is that The Old Course is a far more generous terrain for him to get around, particularly in comparison to undulating Augusta. St Andrews is another test where is experience can prove vital and with his stunning successes there in 2000 and 2005, the hype will inevitably build over his chances of securing a 16th major.

It will not be for want of trying if he fails. Woods left Augusta with his mantra ringing loud. “Never give up,” Woods. “Always chase after your dreams. Each and every day presents its own different challenges for all of us. Each day I wake up and start the fight all over again.”