Tiger Woods has confirmed he will end his self-imposed exile by returning to competitive action at next month's Masters Tournament.
The world number one has been on an indefinite break from the game since admitting marital infidelity in the wake of a car crash outside his Florida home in late November.
PGA Tour commissioner Tim Finchem hinted at an impending return at a press conference on Monday evening and Woods has now revealed he intends to compete at Augusta National, where the first Major of the season takes place from April 8-11.
"The Masters is where I won my first major and I view this tournament with great respect," he said in a statement. "After a long and necessary time away from the game, I feel like I'm ready to start my season at Augusta.
"The major championships have always been a special focus in my career and, as a professional, I think Augusta is where I need to be, even though it's been a while since I last played."
Speaking at a lengthy press conference in February, a contrite Woods refused to confirm whether he would return to competitive action at all in 2010.
But despite now revealing his intention to return, the 34-year-old 14-time Major champion insists there is still work to be done in his private life.
The statement added: "I've undergone almost two months of inpatient therapy and I'm continuing my treatment. Although I'm returning to competition, I still have a lot of work to do in my personal life.
"When I finally got into a position to think about competitive golf again, it became apparent to me that the Masters would be the earliest I could play.
"I called both Joe Lewis and Arnold Palmer and expressed my regrets for not attending the Tavistock Cup and the Arnold Palmer Invitational. I again want to thank them both for their support and their understanding. Those are fantastic tournaments and I look forward to competing in them again.
"I'd also like to thank the Augusta National members and staff for their support. I have deep appreciation for everything that they do to create a wonderful event for the benefit of the game."