Woods fires Open warning

TigerWoods

Woods has suffered a torrid 2014, having slipped from the top of the world rankings at the start of the year down to seventh after undergoing back surgery in March.

The 38-year-old made his return to action at last month's Quicken Loans National, but missed the cut with rounds of 74 and 75 at Congressional Country Club in Bethesda, Maryland.

However, Woods said in the aftermath of that tournament that he was satisfied with his performance after nearly four months out.

And, speaking after a practice round at Royal Liverpool, the 14-time major champion claimed he feels sufficiently prepared to win his fourth Open title next week.

"I've got my speed back - I can do whatever I want. I'm at that point," Woods said.

"Before I had the procedure, I was at the point I couldn't do anything.

"I had my good weeks and bad weeks - now they are all good.

"Congressional was big for me, the fact I could go out there and play and I got better as the days went on.

"I'm starting to hit the ball out there again. I'm only going to get stronger. As the weeks go on, I'm getting strong and faster." 

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