The season-ending tournament of the PGA Tour schedule, the Tour Championship in Atlanta, was won by Tiger Woods on September 23rd, marking his first victory in five years.

Starting with a birdie at the first hole with a lead never less than two on the 16th hole, Woods ended with a score of 11 under par, two strokes over Billy Horschel, which secured his win of the Tour Championship. His return and victory marks a significant recovery. Since his last victory in 2013 at the WGC-Bridgestone Invitational, Woods has undergone four different back surgeries. Just last April, the 42-year-old went through a spinal fusion surgery.

Woods’ former coach, Butch Harmon, said, “For what [he is] doing now, I [was not] sure [he would] ever play again, much less have a chance to win.”

While he won the Tour Championship, competitor Justin Rose scored a birdie for the last hole, winning a $10 million bonus and the FedEx Cup. If not for Rose, Woods would have won his third FedEx title. His unexpected success is not diminished. As of last year, Woods was ranked 1,199th. Now, he stands at 13th in the world. Additionally, he is only two wins from matching all-time PGA Tour victor Sam Snead.

Even among people who are not avid fans of Woods, his victory was a remarkable and surprising feat.

Keertana Panyam (9), aware of Woods’ victory, commented, “His comeback was an incredible surprise to us all and it just goes to show that anyone can do anything.”

Viewers and fans alike appreciate the astonishing value of Woods’ recovery and return.

Abby Newhart (9), a golf player, said, “In golf, your swing involves all of your body moving. After coming back from such a serious injury, it is surprising that he was able to come back as well as he did.  Though some may have thought this would hinder him, it [has not] and instead, he is continuing to improve.”

As one of the world’s most successful golfers, Tiger Woods made a strong return, entering the ranks once again and astounding masses.