Tiger Woods has revealed that the recovery from his car crash has been more painful than his back fusion surgeries.

The 15-time major champion is taking things “one step at a time” after suffering open fractures to his lower right leg in the single car collision in Los Angeles in February. 

“This has been an entirely different animal,” Woods told Golf Digest when asked to compare to his previous operations.

“I understand more of the rehab processes because of my past injuries, but this was more painful than anything I have ever experienced.”

45-year-old Woods says he still holds hope of playing professional golf again but he won't be rushing his recovery.

“My physical therapy has been keeping me busy. I do my routines every day and am focused on my number one goal right now: walking on my own. Taking it one step at a time.”

He's also thanked supporters and fellow players for their well wishes in recent months.

“It’s been incredible,” Woods said. “I have had so much support from people both inside and outside of golf which means so much to me and has helped tremendously.”