As Tiger Woods prepares for what could be his final Open Championship at Royal Troon, Colin Montgomerie has voiced a blunt opinion on the legendary golfer’s future.
The 15-time major winner has been advised by Montgomerie to retire, citing Woods’ ongoing struggles and declining performance.
Woods, now 48, has faced numerous injuries and setbacks in recent years. This year alone, he has played only four events, withdrawing from The Genesis Invitational due to flu and finishing 60th at The Masters. His performances at the PGA Championship and the US Open resulted in missed cuts, signaling a sharp decline from his previous dominance in the sport.
RELATED: Tiger Woods Reveal why he Declined US Ryder Cup Captaincy
Montgomerie, a Ryder Cup hero and one of golf’s respected voices, found Woods’ recent performance at Pinehurst No. 2 particularly difficult to watch. The tournament, known for its challenging conditions, saw Woods struggle significantly, raising concerns about his ability to compete at the highest level.
Reflecting on Woods’ current state, Montgomerie expressed sadness over seeing the former world number one lose the aura that once defined him.
“I hope people remember Tiger as he was, full of passion and charisma. Now, it’s hard to watch,” Montgomerie told The Times.
He suggested that Woods should retire to preserve his legacy, adding that Woods did not seem to enjoy his game at Pinehurst.
Montgomerie himself understands the difficulty of stepping away from the sport. Despite never winning a major, he had a successful career with 31 European Tour victories and three senior major championships. He acknowledges the challenge Woods faces in deciding to retire, especially given the competitive spirit that still drives him.
Woods’ career has been marred by injuries, most notably a high-speed car crash in 2021, which led to reconstructive ankle surgery. While the surgery reduced his pain, it compromised his mobility, making it challenging to compete against the world’s best players.
Despite these challenges, Woods remains determined, pushing through pain to participate in major events. However, Montgomerie and many others believe it might be time for Woods to conclude his illustrious career, leaving behind a legacy that has profoundly impacted the world of golf.
