It’s the comeback story of a lifetime,
Tiger Woods has gone from not knowing his future in professional golf a year ago to winning the PGA Tour’s season ending event, the Tour Championship at East Lake.
The former world number one has clawed his way back into the winner’s circle for the first time in five years. Beating Billy Horschel by 2-strokes to garner his first victory in 1,876 days and 80th PGA Tour title with an 11-under par total.
“It’s been unbelievable, to get to this level again, I didn’t know if that would happen again and lo and behold, here we are,” Woods told reporters afterwards. “I’ve been sitting on 79 for about five years now, and to get 80 is a pretty damned good feeling.”
Since 2013 Woods has been plagued with back injuries that forced him to undergo numerous surgeries, including two spinal fusions. This time last year the 14-time major winner admitted to reporters that he wasn’t sure what his future in the sport held. Fast forward to the 2018 season and Woods has been proving he is more than able to compete at the top level of golf.
“I’m just blessed, I’m just lucky. I am lucky, it worked out for me. My back was in a pretty bad spot there,” said Woods. “To figure out a golf swing and a game built on a fixed point in my back, it’s been kind of interesting.”
Adding, “It hasn’t been easy but I’ve been very lucky to have a great team around me and they’ve worked so hard to give me a chance, and also the support I’ve had from them means all the world to me.”
The scene of Woods walking up to the 18th green on Sunday was like something out of a film. Flanked by security and swarms of fans chanting and cheering for the GOAT made it more than apparent we were about to witness one of the greatest moments in sports‘ history.
The response from fans and fellow players alike was swift and immediate. With
Phil Mickelson stating, “We all have been expecting it. I’ve seen the way he’s been swinging the club and the way he’s been playing. We all knew it was just a matter time.”
While Woods’ finish at East Lake stole the headlines this morning,
Justin Rose also deserves a mention for winning the FedEx Cup title. The current world number one secured the championship with a birdie on the final hole, but was more than aware of the “Woods effect” happening around him.
Telling reporters, “Sorry to rain on the parade, guys.” Before congratulating Woods on his incredible victory.
Check out the gear Tiger used to claim his latest triumph.
Driver:
TaylorMade M3
Fairway Woods:
TaylorMade M3; TaylorMade M1
Irons: TaylorMade TW Phase 1 prototype
Wedges:
TaylorMade Milled Grind
Putter: Scotty Cameron Newport 2 GSS
Ball:
Bridgestone Tour B XS
Grips: Golf Pride Tour Velvet Cord
