Early Momentum Fades for Tiger Woods at 2024 U.S. Open
At the beginning of the 2024 U.S. Open at Pinehurst No. 2, Tiger Woods briefly surged, touching the lead with a promising start. Woods made a birdie on the par-5 10th hole, converting an 11-foot putt that showcased his precision on the green. He then made crucial par saves from similar distances on Nos. 12 and 13, keeping his momentum alive.
However, Woods's round took a turn for the worse on the short par-4 14th, where he missed an opportunity that could have bolstered his position. His first missed fairway on the 16th hole led to his first dropped shot, and a miscalculated second putt on No. 17 compounded his troubles. Despite these setbacks, Woods remained within earshot of the lead, making the turn in an even-par 36.
Front Nine Struggles
The front nine proved to be less forgiving for Woods, as his putter began to betray him. Over a seven-hole stretch, Woods carded five bogeys, causing him to drift down the leaderboard and sit in a tie for 87th, just a stroke off the projected cutline.
Woods made a crucial birdie on the par-5 5th, followed by ticklish par saves from 8 feet on the intimidating par-3 6th. He also drained an impressive 17-footer on No. 7, showing glimpses of his old self. However, the pressure on the putter cost Woods another shot on the par-4 8th, and inconsistencies plagued his overall play. He hit 12 of 14 fairways but managed only 10 greens in regulation, giving himself just one birdie chance across the par-4s. He ultimately bogeyed six of his last 12 holes, highlighting the need for significant improvement in his approach shots.
Tactical Approach
Despite the rocky start, Woods demonstrated a tactical approach around Pinehurst No. 2. Often playing conservatively, he aimed for the fat sides of greens, a strategy that requires better precision and execution. To claw his way back into the tournament, Woods's irons must start cooperating, and his play around the greens must improve.
Woods has shown time and again his ability to bounce back from adversity. With a focused approach and slight tweaks to his game, he remains within striking distance. Although his performance at the 2024 U.S. Open started poorly, it is far from over. Woods's determination and ability to make necessary adjustments keep the possibility of a turnaround alive.
Quotes
Reflecting on some notable moments, Woods's birdie bid from 11 feet on No. 10 failed to threaten the hole, setting the tone for some of his missed opportunities. When his second putt on the par-3 17th fell by the wayside, Woods put his second square on the scorecard. However, a birdie on the par-5 5th came courtesy of a towering 4 iron from the middle of the fairway, demonstrating that he still possesses the skill to competently navigate challenging holes.
Ultimately, the pressure on the putter cost Woods another shot on the par-4 8th, underlining the critical issue of his inconsistency with the putter.
Woods's journey through the early stages of the 2024 U.S. Open has been nothing short of a rollercoaster, but his resilience and tactical approach provide hope. As the tournament progresses, golf fans around the world will be watching closely to see if Woods can regain his form and mount a comeback. If any golfer has the pedigree to do so, it is certainly Tiger Woods.