Early Momentum Fades for Tiger Woods at 2024 U.S. Open
Tiger Woods started strong in the 2024 U.S. Open at Pinehurst No. 2, briefly reaching the summit of the leaderboard before early momentum faded. His fluctuating performance serves as a testament to the challenges of maintaining form in professional golf.
Early Surge
Woods began his round on a promising note, making a birdie at the par-5 10th hole, where he converted an 11-foot putt. His ability to save par from similar distances on the 12th and 13th holes suggested he was in fine form. However, a missed opportunity on the short par-4 14th marked the beginning of his struggles. His first fairway miss on the 16th led to his first dropped shot, and a miscalculated second putt on the 17th compounded his troubles. Despite these setbacks, Woods made the turn with an even-par 36, keeping him within reach of the leaders.
Front Nine Struggles
The front nine proved to be less forgiving for Woods, particularly as his putter began to let him down. He carded five bogeys over a seven-hole stretch, causing him to drift down the leaderboard and sit in a tie for 87th. At this point, he was just a stroke off the projected cutline, necessitating a strong finish to stay in contention.
Moments of Brilliance
Woods demonstrated flashes of his old brilliance with a crucial birdie on the par-5 5th, coming from a towering 4-iron shot from the middle of the fairway. He followed this up with a ticklish par save from 8 feet on the intimidating par-3 6th, and an impressive 17-footer on the 7th hole. However, a flawed performance with his putter cost him another shot on the par-4 8th, and he finished the round bogeying six of his last 12 holes.
Challenges Ahead
The inconsistency in Woods's play was evident throughout the round. He hit 12 of 14 fairways but only managed to hit 10 greens in regulation. This discrepancy highlights the need for improvements in his approach shots if he hopes to claw his way back into the tournament. Woods's conservative tactical approach aimed for the fat sides of greens, yet this strategy demands a higher level of precision and execution, particularly with his irons.
Woods's overall performance was hindered by inconsistencies, giving himself just one birdie chance across the par-4s. His need for significant improvement is clear, especially with his approach shots and putting under pressure.
A Glimmer of Hope
Despite the rocky start, Woods's performance at the 2024 U.S. Open is far from over. His ability to bounce back from adversity is well-documented, and with a focused approach and minor tweaks to his game, he remains within striking distance. The stage is set for Woods to demonstrate the resilience and skill that have defined his career. Whether he can turn his fortunes around at Pinehurst No. 2 remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: Tiger Woods will never be counted out until the final putt drops.
Quotes from the Course:
"Woods's birdie bid from 11 feet failed to threaten the hole," a commentator remarked, highlighting a critical missed opportunity.
"When his second putt on the par-3 17th fell by the wayside, Woods put his second square on the scorecard," reflecting another moment of struggle.
"A birdie on the par-5 5th came courtesy of a towering 4-iron from the middle of the fairway," showcasing a moment of brilliance amidst the challenges.
"The pressure on the putter cost Woods one last shot on the par-4 8th," summarizing the key issue that plagued his round.
As Woods prepares for the remaining rounds, fans and critics alike will be watching closely to see if the legendary golfer can once again defy the odds and stage a comeback.