Tiger Woods: Questions Plague the Legend as He Returns From Injury

After months of inactivity, embattled golf legend Tiger Woods is set to return.

For golf fans, the absence of the most recognized golf pro of his generation made for a lackluster British Open.

Woods, 35, will be returning to the golf course at this week's WGC Bridgestone Invitational in Akron, the last event before the PGA Championship begins August 11th.

It's been a tumultuous few months for Woods who hasn't played a full round of golf since the Masters in April when he staged an impressive comeback to finish tied for fourth. He also has dropped out of the Top 20.

Questions persist as to Woods's status based on recent events.

Has Woods healed from injury? Nursing injuries to his knee and Achilles, it's possible Woods is hurrying back to make the PGA Tour playoffs. He skipped the British Open after admitting that he rushed back for the 2011 Players Championship, where he withdrew after nine holes.

Is Woods prepared? Swing coach Sean Foley had this to say on Tuesday night: "We have not hit any balls. And I have no idea what his plans are as far as when he plays again. It's up to the doctors." There's no real way to interpret Foley's comments as anything but discouraging news for Woods.

Who is his caddie? After Steve Williams and Woods parted ways, there has been no mention by Woods about a replacement. Childhood friend Bryon Bell was recently announced as his caddie, but it's likely to be temporary.

Is the house cleaning helpful or hurtful? Woods divorced Elin Nordegren, went to therapy, cut ties with swing coach Hank Haney, IMG, and Williams. There has been little recent talk about progress with Woods's personal life. He's added Steve Foley, and agent Mark Steinberg has taken Woods with him to Excel Sports. When will we hear about a permanent replacement for Williams? Every time Woods looks like he's not the Woods of the past, there will be calls that the changes in his life are distractions and that he is not mentally capable of returning to his previous form.

Woods is likely to have an improved short game since his injury would allow him to focus more on that area, but that might mean he will be rusty in other areas. Some experts think he might not crack the Top 20 at Akron, with his all distractions.

Lots of questions for Woods to answer as he steps onto the course at Firesetone Country Club.