Tiger Woods - GOAT
Tiger Woods, born in 1975 in Cypress, California, is an American professional golfer who has created an indelible mark on the world. If we wrote his story as a book, we would have to label it as fiction!
His life is a complex journey of ups and downs — of unmatched success on the golf course, inspiration for countless millions across the globe, and personal failures and physical disabilities that he has dealt with in becoming the greatest and wealthiest golfer ever — with a net worth today of $1.3 Billion.
Tiger’s journey into the world stage began astonishingly early. His father, Earl Woods, began nurturing his son’s talent during infancy — teaching Tiger to putt and turn his shoulders before he was even two years old.
At the incredibly young age Tiger was already making television appearances, showcasing his golfing skills on “The Mike Douglas Show,” where he famously putted with comedian and golf enthusiast Bob Hope. Tiger’s prodigious talent was more than evident as he shot a 48 over nine holes at just three years old – yes three years old! And the young boy was featured in Golf Digest at the age of five. He first defeated his father at the age of 11, and by 12 he was breaking 70 on a regulation golf course.
Tiger’s teenage years were marked by a string of even more impressive accomplishments. At 15, he became the youngest winner of the U.S. Junior Amateur Championship, a record he set in 1991. He went on to win this championship a total of three times.
He continued on to claim the U.S. Amateur Championship title three times –- in 1994, 1995, and 1996 – continuously breaking records as he won titles. His exceptional amateur career set the stage for two-plus decades of unprecedented professional successes on a global stage – after he launched his pro career in 1996 at the age of 20, introducing himself with the words: “Hello World.”
As a professional golfer, Tiger Woods’ body of work is unmatched. He is tied with Sam Snead for the most PGA Tour wins at 83. He has won 15 majors, second only to Jack Nicklaus’ 18. Tiger’s major wins came in 1997 at the Masters when he won by 12 strokes!!! At the age of only 21! He is one of five players to have won all four professional major championships in his career, and the only player to have held title to each of these four simultaneously.
His scoring average of 67.79 in 2000 remains the lowest in PGA Tour history. He holds the all-time amazing PGA record of 142 consecutive cuts made. Tiger has been the PGA Player of the Year a record 11 times and has won the Byron Nelson Award for lowest scoring average 8 times.
Tiger Woods’ journey has been a blend of natural talent, dedicated (obsessive?) parenting, and an unyielding drive to excel (some would call this also obsessive) — all of which propelled him into the spotlight and paved the way for his legendary status in the world of golf. He is the GOAT — the greatest of all time.
But Woods has faced repeated personal struggles, including marital issues and physical injuries. In 2009, he took a hiatus from professional golf to address his marriage problems and infidelities — problems that were showcased for the entire world, given his celebrity.
He also faced numerous and significant injuries throughout his career, which have impacted his performance and ability to compete. His mind-bending achievements would have undoubtedly been far greater without these.
Way back in 1994, when Tiger was only 15 years old, two benign tumors and scar tissue were removed from his left knee. In 2002, he underwent surgery to remove fluid inside and outside the ACL and benign cysts from his left knee.
A year later he ruptured the ACL in his left knee during the British Open, but continued playing and won five of the last six tournaments that season. In 2009 he needed surgery on his left knee to repair cartilage damage. He also suffered two stress fractures in his left tibia. Yet that very same year he won the U.S. Open on an injured leg before undergoing ACL surgery. In 2020, he was forced to withdraw from the Players Championship due to a bulging disk in his back and an inflamed facet joint in his neck. Then he had lumbar fusion surgery in 2017.
But the most amazing story of all involves Tiger Woods’s car crash in February 2021 – a harrowing incident that left him with extremely serious injuries. Woods was driving in California when his SUV left the road, hit a tree, and rolled over. Firefighters and paramedics had to extricate him from the wreckage. He was traveling at approximately 85 mph when he crashed, and the car flipped several times. Fortunately, he was wearing his seatbelt which saved his life.
Woods suffered open leg fractures, injuries to his foot, and ankle damage. His right leg and ankle bore the brunt of the impact. The chief medical officer at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center described for the world his shattered tibia and fibula bones. It was thought that Tiger would never walk again, and certainly he was not expected to ever play competitive golf again..
Woods underwent lengthy surgery to stabilize his leg. A rod was permanently placed in his tibia to address the fractures. He also had extensive surgery to repair the ankle injuries sustained in the crash. And guess what – he announced his intention to again play on the PGA Tour. And he has – although limited and with average rather than his prior spectacular results. But it is painful at times to watch him struggle to walk. Yet today he is driving the ball almost as far as he did in his prime. And who knows – he might even someday win on the PGA Tour – surpassing the record for victories he shares with Sam Snead.
Tiger will continue to caddie for his 15 year old young prodigy-son, Charlie, who is making his own waves — winning the US Kids Tournament at the age of 11 and recently qualifying for the US Junior Amateur, the same tournament his dad won three times as a teenager. When Charlie swings his clubs, he truly looks like Tiger’s “Mini-me”.
Many ask — how is all of this possible? It all seems like pure fiction.
Well Tiger Woods possesses an unwavering commitment to his sport and to excellence. Despite setbacks, he maintains a fierce desire to compete at the highest level. After surgeries and injuries, Woods diligently follows rehabilitation protocols. He works with experts to regain strength, flexibility, and mobility. He adjusts his playing style to accommodate physical limitations — such as modifying his swing to reduce stress on his back. His mental fortitude allows him to focus on the game even when physically compromised. Visualization techniques and mental conditioning play a crucial role. Woods has a team of specialists — physiotherapists, trainers, and coaches— who guide his recoveries. Their expertise ensures a holistic approach. He pays attention to warning signs and doesn’t push beyond limits. Rest and recovery are essential components of his strategy.
His resilience and determination to repeatedly return to the sport he loves have inspired many. His work ethic, mental toughness, and relentless pursuit of greatness amaze people worldwide. His overcoming personal flaws and injuries only add to his greatness. His commitment to excellence resonates with people of all roles in life who are seeking inspiration in a world which is sadly lacking heros and role models.
And let us never forget that Tiger Woods has made significant contributions off the golf course through his charitable organizations.
The TGR Foundation, established in 1996 by Tiger and his father, Earl Woods, aims to improve the health, education, and welfare of children in America. Since 2006, the TGR Learning Lab has provided unique STEM learning experiences for students from under-resourced communities. It’s a safe environment where kids recognize their potential and gain skills to thrive.
The Earl Woods Scholar Program program supports first-generation scholars in college and beyond with university scholarships, mentorships, internships, and career-building opportunities.
Tiger’s up-and-down journey reminds us that success isn’t linear; it involves setbacks, growth, and resilience. His impact on golf and sports culture and far beyond will always remain profound. He shows us that determination and passion can overcome obstacles. Tiger Woods’ story is one of triumph, resilience, and unwavering dedication. His legacy inspires generations, connecting people through the love of golf and the human spirit.
Tiger Woods has shared many inspiring quotes throughout his career. Several have motivated and inspired our chapter about ‘Clubbing’ in Adam in Taoland. Playing the sport, Adam learns many life lessons from his mentors while playing the game. Here are a few of his many quotes:
“No matter how good you get you can always get better, and that’s the exciting part.”
“The greatest thing about tomorrow is I will be better than I am today.
“It’s ok to fail. Failing does not shape your personality; it’s how you react upon your failure.”
“Talent is something you are born with, and a skill is something you develop. 99% of what you need to succeed in golf (and life) are skills.”
“Under pressure, you can win with your mind.”
“You hit a bad shot, you have to get over it right there and then so you can get focused on the next one.”
“I wake up every day and I can’t wait to go to work, and that’s a gift.”
There will undoubtedly be a Film produced one day in the future titled: “Tiger”. And future generations will wonder if it is fiction or somehow an amazing story of truth that can inspire – as long as we learn from rather than reject the hero.
It will definitely include a scene depicting the conclusion of the 2019 Masters Tournament when millions on TV and on the course witnessed an electric atmosphere – as a 43 year old Tiger Woods made his triumphant comeback to major championship glory after an 11-year drought. As Tiger approached the 18th green, the crowd erupted in cheers, applause, and chants of “Tiger! Tiger!” The energy was palpable, as fans from all walks of life stood in awe of his resilience and skill.
When Woods sank the final putt that day to secure his fifth Masters title, the scene was highly emotional. He raised both arms in victory, and the crowd responded with a collective roar. His embrace with his son, Charlie, added a heartwarming touch to the moment. Commentators described the atmosphere as giving them “chills” and “goosebumps.” It was a testament to the enduring impact of Tiger Woods on the sport and the hearts of fans worldwide.
The audience that day recognized that they were witnessing history – a bridge between the past and the future. There was a sea of emotion, gratitude, and sheer joy. Tiger’s victory transcended golf – it was one of the final chapters – before the car crash – of Woods’ resilience, redemption, and the enduring spirit of a champion.
