Tiger Woods says he hopes to put 'tough year' behind him

— -- Tiger Woods said he is looking forward to putting a "tough year'' behind him and expressed hope that he could be healthy and competitive in 2016.

In a year-end post on his website, Woods offered no hint about his return but also sounded more positive about a comeback than he did three weeks ago during a news conference at the Hero World Challenge.

Woods twice has had surgery on his back in the past three months.

"The thing I'm looking forward to the most about 2016 is getting back out there again,'' Woods wrote on his website at TigerWoods.com. "I've missed it, and I would like to do it pain-free. I haven't done that in what seems like a long time. I've had it in spurts the last few years and have done some pretty good things, but I'd like to have sustained health.''

Woods, who turns 40 next week, reflected on his career that will see him celebrate his 20th anniversary as a pro in 2016, described his three greatest accomplishments as his victories at the 1997 Masters, winning four consecutive majors from 2000 to 2001 and his consecutive made-cut streak which reached 142 tournaments in a row.

He also talked about how golf has changed over the past 20 years, specifically equipment and fitness, as well as the frustrating aspects to 2015, results of his injuries and inactivity.

"The frustrating part was not being able to build on it throughout the year,'' Woods wrote. "To finally have it switch and turn in the last event I played at the Wyndham Championship [a tie for 10th], and then lo and behold, I can't physically do it anymore. I've had two back surgeries since then, so it's been a roller-coaster ride the entire year, from being down to some pretty darn good highs.''

Woods had back surgery on March 31, 2014, then had his worst season as a pro in 2015, missing cuts in three consecutive majors.

He had a second surgery on Sept. 16 and then another surgery on Oct. 28. During a Dec. 1 news conference in the Bahamas, Woods said there was "no light at the end of the tunnel'' in regards to beginning rehabilitation and a return to golf.

Woods in his post Tuesday again said he hopes to qualify for the 2016 U.S. Ryder Cup team but is excited regardless about the opportunity to be a vice captain to Davis Love III.

"Where do I see myself in the next five to 10 years?'' Woods wrote. "I am still playing golf at the highest level and winning tournaments and major championships.''