Jack Nicklaus offered Tiger Woods warm 40th birthday wishes

Jack Nicklaus has been steadfast — at least publicly — in his belief that Tiger Woods can still someday surpass his major tally of 18.

On Woods’ 40th birthday on Wednesday, Nicklaus offered his wishes to the 14-time major winner for not only on his special day but also for the remainder of his career.

Via Twitter:

Happy Birthday @tigerwoods! Just remember that 40 is the new 30. I had one of the greatest years of my life when I turned 40, and so I not only send you best wishes for a Happy Birthday but hope for a terrific year. You have heard me say it before that I know you have a lot of great golf left to play and success to enjoy, and I hope it all begins this year for you. Lastly, I wish you and your family a very Happy New Year.

Woods has been out of action since missing out on the FedEx Cup playoffs in August, then undergoing a pack of back surgeries in September and October that have him indefinitely sidelined. In December at his Hero World Challenge, Woods said there is no timetable for not only his return to competitive golf but also beginning more rigorous rehab.

Ryan Ballengee is a Yahoo Sports contributor. Find him on Facebook and Twitter.

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