Tiger Woods believes he can beat Jack Nicklaus's record of 18 major victories despite being sidelined for more than a year through injury.
The 40-year-old has not won a major since his victory at the US Open in 2008, and has not played competitively since August 2015.
However, the former world No 1 told PBS television's Charlie Rose program that he had not given up hope of adding to his 14 major wins despite originally giving an enigmatic response when first asked whether he felt he could catch up to Nicklaus's haul.
"To be honest with you, no," Woods replied. But asked if he accepted that eventuality, he added: "I've accepted I'm going to get more."
When pressed later on whether he meant he still plans to break Nicklaus's mark, Woods responded: "Correct."
Woods decided to delay his return recently, pulling out of the Safeway Open in California and next month's Turkish Airlines Open, claiming his game is not ready for a competitive return to the course.
However, he said he is optimistic he can return in December and says he retains a hugely competitive edge.
"I like beating those guys. That's why I practice all those hours... is to be ready to take on those guys down the stretch. And do I miss it? Absolutely, 100 per cent," he said.
"And to be at my age now, at 40 years old ... I'm the first one to admit I can't do the things I used to be able to do. Most people can't at my age, versus when they were younger. I have to find different ways to go about it."