Tiger Woods' return to Sawgrass

Woods hasn't competed in The Players since winning in 2013

PONTE VEDRA BEACH, Fla. – It's a tournament that Tiger Woods hasn't played in since he won it in 2013. But when asked Tuesday, he says it's like he never left.

"I'm really happy with my game right now," said Woods. "I drove it well this morning and my short game feels really good. I've made huge strides from where I was at Torrey Pines and Phoenix."

Coming off of his customary Tuesday morning practice round where he played only the front nine, Woods said that the course was surprisingly soft and manageable, but added that it is early in the week and that will change.

What will not change for Tiger is a love/hate relationship with this course.

"It's a tricky golf course. It seems like an easy week when you are on, hitting fairways and your iron game is in control. Then there are days when you are like, 'God, I can't break 75 here.'  It's one of those places that's very polarizing."

Woods will tee off for his first round at The Players with Martin Kaymer and Adam Scott Thursday at 1:49 p.m.