Tiger Woods’ return to competitive golf was supposed to be an emotional and meaningful moment.
Playing at SoFi Center, the same venue where his mother, Kultida Woods, last saw him compete, the golf legend was hoping for a strong showing. But what should have been a sentimental comeback turned into one of the most embarrassing moments of his career.
Tiger Woods’ shocking mistake in emotional return
Just weeks after the passing of his mother on February 4 at the age of 80, Woods took to the course in the TGL match between Jupiter Links GC and New York Golf Club.
The event was a poignant one for the 15-time major champion, as he reflected on the support his mother had given him throughout his career.
“My mom was a force of nature all her own, her spirit was simply undeniable,”Woods said, acknowledging her influence on his success.
However, his emotional return took an unexpected turn during his singles matchup against Cameron Young.
On the 13th hole, Woods hit a solid drive and prepared for his second shot.
Looking to cover what he thought was a 99-yard approach, he confidently pulled out his pitching wedge.
But there was a problem, he had misheard the actual yardage.
“I heard 99 yards, so I went out there and hit it 100 yards,”Woods later explained.
“One of the most embarrassing moments in my golfing career just happened. I just screwed up. That was embarrassing.”
Instead of landing near the green, Woods’ ball came up well short, leading to confusion and laughter from his teammates.
His playing partner Tom Kim couldn’t contain his amusement, while his opponents stood stunned.
New York Golf Club went on to dominate the match, securing a 10-3 victory over Woods and his team.
The moment may have been humiliating for the 82-time PGA Tour winner, but considering the circumstances, it’s understandable.
Woods admitted that returning to the course without his mother watching was an emotional challenge.
“Well, I think that she really enjoyed watching me play,”Woods reflected.
“It was awesome to have her in the stands watching us play and having the kids here and family and friends. I had a hard time driving down here.”
Woods had previously withdrawn from the Genesis Invitational as he continued to grieve.
In the lead-up to the match, he had barely picked up his clubs.
“I hadn’t hit a golf ball since I played with the President and just put everything away and shut it off,” he said.
“I had a really hard time getting here and then reliving all the moments that we’ve had-my mom, how excited she was to have Charlie drive her here.”
While this wasn’t the performance Woods had hoped for, fans will be eager to see how he rebounds.
His next expected appearance in the TGL will be on February 25 against the undefeated Bay Golf Club.
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