Jan. 14, 2009 -- Tiger Woods is getting closer to making a return to competitive golf. On his website, he has announced that he is now able to take full swing shots while practicing at Isleworth Country Club near his home in Orlando, Fla.

"As I had hoped, after Jan. 1, I started hitting longer irons and my driver," Woods said. "I'm not swinging as hard as I can, but I'm working towards that goal."

Woods has been playing some practice holes with coach Hank Haney but has not set a definite time table for his return. Following his 2008 U.S. Open victory in a 19-hole playoff with Rocco Mediate, Woods underwent reconstructive ACL surgery on his left knee. Additionally, he had to rehabilitate two stress fractures in his leg.

"So far, my knee has held up well, but I don't know when I'll be able to return to competition," he said. "I'd like to thank everyone for their support and concern and I'm looking forward to rejoining the PGA Tour when I think that I'm ready."