“Emotionally there’s a lot in it” – Tiger Woods preparing for an awkward Masters-Champions dinner

TIGER WOODS predicts an awkward and emotionally charged Masters Champions Dinner.

The five-time Augusta winner finally returns this week after not playing since The Open last July.

1

But the golfing legend is already gearing up for what could be a tasty April meeting in more ways than one.

Then the Masters icon will dine with other former Augusta champions – including LIV rebels.

Woods, 47, is trying to focus on the Genesis Invitational starting Thursday.

But he knows the Masters will be a big event in two months’ time – on and off the pitch.

Six big names from the LIV circuit will attend the dinner – “hosted” by 2022 Champion Scottie Scheffler.

A tricky reception awaits Phil Mickelson, Patrick Reed, Bubba Watson, Dustin Johnson, Charl Schwarzel and Sergio Garcia.

Woods was – along with Northern Ireland’s Rory McIlroy – one of the strongest critics of the Saudi-backed LIV breakaway circle.

The California native accused the rebels of “disregarding” and “disrespecting” the PGA Tour and showing “hostility” towards it.

CASINO SPECIAL – BEST ONLINE CASINOS FOR 2023

And the 15-time Major champion said: “The champions dinner is obviously going to be something to talk about.

“We must honor Scottie. Scottie is the winner, it’s his dinner.

“To make sure Scottie is honored properly, but also to recognize the nature of what happened and the people who have left, right where our situation is either legal or emotional, there’s a lot.”

And as for how LIV players might be treated, he added: “I don’t know what that reaction will be like.

“I know some of our friendships have certainly taken a different path, but we’ll see when that all unfolds.”