World No 1 Scottie Scheffler is one of 11 members of the US Ryder Cup team slated to play, with defending champion Viktor Hovland among the victorious European team in the field. One notable name who is missing from the field is Brooks Koepka.

One free spot remains, however, with ‘the final tournament exemption (to) be announced at a later date’, sparking speculation that it could be Woods.

Tiger Woods has left the door open for a possible return to play at the Hero World Challenge

Brooks Koepka was perhaps the most noteworthy name not included in the field for the event

Woods has not played competitively since he pulled out of the Masters with a foot injury

Woods has not played competitively since withdrawing from the Masters after making the cut.

He had ankle surgery a short time after for injuries related to his 2021 car accident, though he was seen hitting wedges during a foundation event at Pebble Beach last week.

Sponsor exemptions were awarded to Rickie Fowler and Justin Thomas. Both are among the top 25 in the world ranking, which illustrates the strength of the field.

Players must be among the top 50 to get an exemption, part of the provision for the unofficial event getting world ranking points.

The criteria allows for an exemption to be used on the tournament host – Woods – if he needs one.