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Tiger Woods starts hitting, still targeting December return

Tiger Woods returned to the golf course last week and began hitting balls for the first time since missing the cut at the PGA Championship in August, his agent said Monday.

Woods struggled this year following back surgery in March, but the former No. 1 remains on track to compete in the Hero World Challenge at Isleworth this winter.

"The doctors said he could hit golf balls again, and he's listening to his doctors and to his body," Woods's agent, Mark Steinberg, told USA TODAY Sports

"He's feeling pretty good," Steinberg added.

Woods was previously limited to chipping and putting, according to the report.

The 38-year-old missed two cuts and skipped two majors this calendar season, dropping him to 17th in the world rankings after beginning the year at No. 1.

Woods, who played just eight times this season, has previously expressed a desire to participate in the December tournament, which benefits his foundation. The Hero World Challenge runs Dec. 4-7.

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