Rory McIlroy Says Tiger Woods ‘Doing Better,’ Could Return Home Next Week

Rory McIlroy — one of Tiger Woods‘ best friends on the PGA Tour — says Tiger is “doing better” after his horrific car crash … and could be discharged from the hospital in the next week or so.

McIlroy made the revelation on “The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon” on Tuesday … saying he’s spoken with Tiger since the 45-year-old was seriously injured in a rollover crash on Feb. 23 — and is getting positive news from the golf legend.

“He’s doing better,” Rory told Fallon … “Hopefully if things go well over the next week or so he might be able to get home and start recovery at home.”

It’d be great news for Woods … Tiger’s right leg was severely broken in the accident — requiring multiple procedures to fix the issues since.

McIlroy, though, said Woods has been in good spirits during his recovery … even sending Rory encouragement — and even some friendly trash talk — over his performance at this past weekend’s Arnold Palmer Invitational in Florida.

“Even from the hospital bed,” McIlroy said with a smile, “he’s still giving me some heat.”

Tiger has not spoken publicly since Feb. 28 — when he thanked the pro golfers, including McIlory, who paid homage to him by wearing red and black during their rounds.