Tiger Woods touched down at Royal Troon Golf Club in Scotland on Sunday, kicking off his preparation for the 152nd Open Championship. The 15-time major champion wasted no time, diving straight into an 18-hole practice round. Reports indicate that Woods spent a considerable portion of his day honing his chipping, putting, and bunker play.
Woods’ schedule is jam-packed in the lead-up to the tournament. He is set to play another solo practice round on Monday afternoon, followed by a Tuesday round alongside Max Homa and Justin Thomas. This Open Championship marks a significant milestone for Woods as it will be the first time since 2019 that he will compete in all four major tournaments in a single year.
Woods’ return to the big stage is a testament to his unwavering determination and resilience. A severe single-car accident in 2021 nearly cost him his leg, forcing him to significantly limit his playing schedule in the years since. He has primarily focused on major tournaments, the Genesis Invitational (his foundation’s event), and exhibitions like the PNC Championship.
Despite his recent struggles, Woods has a history of success at Royal Troon. He tied for sixth at The Open as recently as 2018. However, he has participated in only two Opens since then, missing the cut in 2019 and 2022. An ankle surgery in April 2023 further hampered his season. The first three majors of 2024 saw Woods finish 60th at the Masters and miss the cut at the PGA Championship and U.S. Open.
Woods’ past performances at Royal Troon are promising. He tied for 24th in 1997 and tied for ninth in 2004. However, he was not in the field for the most recent Open held at Royal Troon in 2016. With his determination and experience, Woods will be looking to add another chapter to his impressive career at this year’s Open Championship.
