Tiger Woods, one of golf’s most renowned figures, faced another setback in his career as he missed the cut at the British Open, effectively bringing his season to an early conclusion.
On Friday, Woods completed his second round with a 6-over 77, following an opening-round 79, tying his highest 36-hole score as a professional. This marks the third consecutive major tournament where Woods has failed to make the cut.
At Royal Troon, Woods’s performance was hindered early on by a double bogey, and his game never recovered throughout the day.
“It wasn’t very good,” Woods admitted. “I made a double right out of the hopper when I needed to go the other way.”
Despite playing all four majors this year for the first time since his triumphant 2019 Masters win, Woods participated in only one other tournament in 2024, withdrawing from the Genesis Invitational due to illness.
Woods plans to take a break from competitive golf until December, possibly participating in his unofficial Hero World Challenge and the PNC Championship alongside his son, Charlie. However, the balance between playing more to regain sharpness and avoiding further strain on his body, which has endured multiple surgeries and a severe car accident in 2021, remains a challenge.
“I’d like to have played more, but I just wanted to make sure that I was able to play the major championships this year,” Woods stated.
This year’s majors have been a struggle for Woods, with an average score of 75.6 and only one round at par or better. His difficulties were evident at Royal Troon, where despite some moments of brilliance, such as a birdie on the par-5 sixth hole, consistency eluded him. His putting, once a hallmark of his game, has also been unreliable.
While Woods received a warm reception from the crowd, the speculation about his future in competitive golf continues. His determination to return remains strong, with eyes set on the 2025 British Open at Royal Portrush. For now, Woods focuses on improving his physical condition and hopes to regain his competitive edge.
As Woods approaches his 49th birthday, the golf world watches closely, hoping for a resurgence of the legendary player’s form.
Despite the recent disappointments, his passion for the sport and commitment to returning to top form persist, leaving fans optimistic about what the future holds for Tiger Woods.
