A win by the American, who took a break from golf when his private life spectacularly unraveled at the end of last year amid allegations of extra-marital affairs, would cost British bookmakers Ladbrokes around $4.57 million.

Woods, a four-times champion at Augusta National, has been installed as 6-1 favorite to win his 15th major title.

"We're set for a mauling if Tiger gets his paws on the trophy," Ladbrokes spokesman Nick Weinberg said in a news release on Thursday.

"We have never offered bigger than 6-1 about him ahead of a major. It will be the worst result in golfing history if we fall prey to the returning Woods." Fellow American Phil Mickelson, a double champion at Augusta, is rated at 14-1 with South African Ernie Els third best at 16-1.

Ladbrokes also offered special odds for other Woods-related incidents.

The American, who is bidding to become the first player to launch his season with a major victory since fellow countryman Ben Hogan clinched the 1953 Masters, is 100-1 to record an ace.

Woods is 5-1 to launch his opening tee shot into the trees and 5-4 to register at least five birdies in Thursday's first round.