I feel like I’m in a relationship with a lover who came back but doesn’t really want to be there.

I still watch every tournament Tiger Woods plays in, but more and more, I’m left feeling empty when they conclude. I hadn’t even checked scoring updates from The Players Championship before I saw a tweet telling me Tiger had withdrawn from the event after a 42 on the front 9.

Tiger Woods, I Miss You.

That’s stupid to say, because you’ve come back. You’ve been back since your surprising fourth-place finish at the 2010 Masters. I see you. Every once in a while I’m moved by you. But, at the end of the day, you leave me feeling empty.

Sorry TW, I remember how good it can be. I remember when I used to consider you the most dominant person (not just athlete) on the planet. I would tell my friends, “nobody’s ever been so good at what he/she does as Tiger, nobody.” Now, I’m not so sure.

Remember those 14 majors? Remember the 1997 Masters when you won by 12 shots? Remember you’re last major when you beat Rocco Mediate on one leg? I do. I remember when you made me believe anything was possible. I remember when I watched you do things and thought, “it is possible for a man simply to will things in to existence.”

The Tiger Woods of pre-hydrant would never have WD from The Players Championship with a sore knee. He’d have battled back from that 42 on the front 9 to make the cut. He’d have made Nick Faldo and Jim Nantz talk about how well he “grinded” and “fought back.” The new Tiger just seems disinterested.

Please know Tiger, this isn’t criticism. It’s just longing. The sport is okay without you. The young talent is incredible. I’ve come to really like Bubba Watson (his recent comments excluded). But, it’s not the same. You reminded us of that during your electric front nine during Sunday at Augusta.

I know you still have plenty of time to break Jack Nicklaus’ record. I know everything can be sorted out. But, once in a while I wonder if you’ll ever really win again. (I’m sorry, it creeps into my mind now and then.)

If this is how it ends TW, I’m okay. I have the memories. I have all 14 majors wrapped up in my brain.

But, I’m not ready to be done with it all, man. No way. There are still at least five more majors to be won. There’s maybe one or two more knee surgeries to be overcome. There’s guys named Rory, Bubba and Dustin who deserve to know how awful losing to you all the time can feel.

I don’t believe it’s over Tiger. But if it is, I’ll understand. Just know I miss you…and I wish you’d will it all back into existence.