It has been a difficult few years for Tiger Woods, but he can still count on a devoted fan base of loyal supporters watching his every swing.But, are we now starting to see the return to form of one of the greatest players that the sport of golf has ever seen?His road back from multiple injuries sustained and personal issues off the course has indeed been a rocky one, but after finishing in second position at the Valspar Championship in Florida - Tiger seems to be getting back to his old self.Serious back injuries have stalled Woods' career in recent years, and then personal issues away from the sport have also mounted serious pressure on his shoulders.However, if this recent tournament is anything to go by, the old Tiger may well be back, and ready to compete at the highest level.The 42-year-old's tied second finish score of -9 with Patrick Reed almost forced a play-off with eventual winner Englishman Paul Casey, who concluded the event on a winning-total of -10.Woods also repaid his fans following an earlier round on Friday by signing a few autographs for the on-waiting spectators.A young fan had his day, or possibly even year, made when Tiger signed his hat - and the thrilled reaction on his face says it all.

Now this is what sport is all about. Young fans getting a chance to get up close and personal with their heroes.

Woods wrote on social media after the event, saying he'd missed the buzz of the golf course, and thanked the crowd for their support.

He wrote: "Wow, what an amazing week…people, atmosphere, adrenaline, back nine on Sunday, man I’ve missed this. Getting better. Thank you for all the support!‬"

The Arnold Palmer Invitational is next on Woods' agenda as he gears up for a first Masters tournament since 2015.