Early Momentum Fades for Tiger Woods at 2024 U.S. Open
Tiger Woods's start at the 2024 U.S. Open at Pinehurst No. 2 was characterized by brief surges and glaring inconsistencies. At the beginning of the tournament, Woods briefly touched the lead, giving fans a glimpse of the Tiger of old.
Early Surge
Tiger began his round with promise, making a birdie on the par-5 10th hole. He converted an 11-foot birdie putt and followed it up with crucial par saves from similar distances on holes 12 and 13. Despite a missed opportunity on the short par-4 14th, he managed to hold his ground.
However, his first missed fairway on the 16th hole led to his first dropped shot. Compounding his troubles, a miscalculated second putt on No. 17 cost him another stroke. Nonetheless, Woods remained within earshot of the lead after making the turn in an even-par 36.
Struggles on the Front Nine
The front nine proved to be less forgiving for Woods. His putter, once his ally, began to betray him. Over a seven-hole stretch, Woods carded five bogeys, drifting down the leaderboard to sit in a tie for 87th place, just a stroke off the projected cutline.
Despite these setbacks, Woods managed to rally with a crucial birdie on the par-5 5th. He executed ticklish par saves from 8 feet on the intimidating par-3 6th and made an impressive 17-footer on No. 7. Yet, the pressure on his putter cost him another shot on the par-4 8th.
Inconsistencies Take Their Toll
Woods's overall play was hindered by inconsistencies throughout his round. He hit 12 out of 14 fairways but managed to hit only 10 greens in regulation. Furthermore, he gave himself just one birdie chance across the par-4s and bogeyed six of his last 12 holes.
For Woods to stay competitive, significant improvement in his approach shots will be necessary. While he demonstrated a tactical approach around Pinehurst No. 2, often playing conservatively and aiming for the fat sides of greens, these tactics require better precision and execution.
Room for Improvement
It's clear that Woods's irons must start cooperating if he is to claw his way back into the tournament. Although he may have had a rocky start at the 2024 U.S. Open, his performance is far from over. Woods 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. He has the experience and determination needed to turn things around. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if the legendary golfer can once again defy the odds and make a strong comeback.
Quotes
"Woods's birdie bid from 11 feet failed to threaten the hole," commented one observer, highlighting the putting struggles that have plagued him. "When his second putt on the par-3 17th fell by the wayside, Woods put his second square on the scorecard," another noted.
Nonetheless, there were moments of brilliance. "A birdie on the par-5 5th came courtesy of a towering 4 iron from the middle of the fairway," illustrating the flashes of his impeccable skill.
As the tournament progresses, it remains to be seen whether Tiger Woods can overcome the early challenges and reassert his dominance on the golf course. With the right adjustments and a bit of luck, the possibility is always there for one of golf's greatest to stage a remarkable comeback.