Nicklaus expects Woods to be at US Masters

Jack Nicklaus said he would not be surprised if Tiger Woods ended his seclusion and decided to play the US Masters at Augusta National next month.

"I've been very non-committal because it's none of my business," Nicklaus told reporters following his pro-am round at this week's Honda Classic in Florida.

"But playing golf, my guess as a golfer, he's going to probably try to (play the Masters).

"It would surprise me if he didn't."

The first major of the season starts on April 8.

Woods is taking an indefinite break from the sport after admitting in December that he had cheated on his wife and has given no time-table for his return to the game.

However, the world number one is reportedly practising and working out at his home in Florida.

The 34-year-old American, who has won 14 majors, has already missed two tournaments he routinely plays early in the season, the San Diego Open at Torrey Pines and the WGC-Match Play Championship in Arizona.

The world number one is chasing Nicklaus' record of 18 majors. Woods has won the Masters at Augusta four times.