Early Momentum Fades for Tiger Woods at 2024 U.S. Open
Early Surge At the beginning of the 2024 U.S. Open at Pinehurst No. 2, Tiger Woods briefly touched the lead, showing glimpses of his former self. Woods made a birdie on the par-5 10th hole, converting an 11-foot putt and making crucial par saves from similar distances on holes 12 and 13. However, a missed opportunity on the short par-4 14th hinted at the struggles that were to come. 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 after making the turn in an even-par 36.
Struggles on the Front Nine Unfortunately for Woods, the front nine proved to be less forgiving. His putter began to betray him, and he carded five bogeys over a seven-hole stretch, ultimately drifting down the leaderboard to sit in a tie for 87th place. Woods sat just a stroke off the projected cutline, making a crucial birdie on the par-5 5th and ticklish par saves from 8 feet on the intimidating par-3 6th. An impressive 17-footer on No. 7 briefly reignited hope, but the pressure on the putter cost Woods another shot on the par-4 8th.
Inconsistencies and Tactical Adjustments Woods's overall play was hindered by inconsistencies throughout his round. Despite hitting 12 of 14 fairways, he only managed to hit 10 greens in regulation. He gave himself just one birdie chance across the par-4s and bogeyed six of his last 12 holes. These struggles indicate that Woods will need to see significant improvement in his approach shots. He demonstrated a tactical approach around Pinehurst No. 2, often playing conservatively and aiming for the fat sides of greens. However, such tactics require better precision and execution, highlighting the need for Woods's irons to start cooperating if he's to claw his way back into the tournament.
Room for Improvement Although Woods had a rocky start at the 2024 U.S. Open, his performance is far from over. He has shown time and again his ability to bounce back from adversity. With a focused approach and slight tweaks to his game, Woods remains within striking distance. As the competition progresses, all eyes will be on whether the veteran golfer can reignite his early momentum and make a significant comeback.
Key Quotes "Woods's birdie bid from 11 feet failed to threaten the hole."
"When his second putt on the par-3 17th fell by the wayside, Woods put his second square on the scorecard."
"A birdie on the par-5 5th came courtesy of a towering 4 iron from the middle of the fairway."
"The pressure on the putter cost Woods one last shot on the par-4 8th."
As the tournament continues, Woods's fans and the golfing community will be watching closely, hopeful that he can once again demonstrate his resilience and competitive spirit.