Tiger is back!
The Ryder Cup and the game of golf has suddenly taken on a whole new complexion as Tiger Woods is back in winning form after picking up his first victory in five years. Woods won the season-ending Tour Championship by two shots to claim his first victory since August 2013 in the WGC-Bridgestone Invitational.
Justin Rose’s performance was good enough to see him securing the FedEx Cup as the Englishman finished the year as the season-long PGA Tour champion and in doing so, he collects the $10m bonus on offer.
In the final round, Woods entered the day with a three-shot lead over Rose and McIlroy, but the Irishman faded from contention with a 74 to finish on five under par and tied for seventh.
Despite having a relatively poor fourth round – Woods shot 71 for the day – the 14-time major champion’s imperious form on the first three days gave him a solid platform and he duly delivered – he carded a 65, 68 and 65 on the first three rounds.
“I just can’t believe I pulled this off after what I’ve gone through,” he said afterwards.
“It’s been tough. I’ve had a not-so-easy last couple of years. I’ve worked my way back. I couldn’t have done it without the help of all the people around me. Some of the other players knew what I was struggling with. It was really special to see them at the green on 18. It’s just hard to believe I won the Tour Championship.
The win comes less than a year since Woods said he might never return to competitive golf following multiple back operations. In April 2017, he had his third surgery in 19 months to try and cure pain in his back and leg.
If you’re wondering if the draw of Tiger Woods to golf fans has diminished, take a look at the scenes that unfolded on the 18th hole of the final round as Woods and McIlroy approached the green.
This is like something you would see in Happy Gilmore.
THIS IS INCREDIBLE! pic.twitter.com/si9EaHq5RY
— Golf Channel (@GolfChannel) September 23, 2018
