Open Championship Removes Tiger Woods From Featured Groups After Dismal First Round
Tiger Woods, despite no longer being a top contender, remains the undisputed biggest draw in golf. Fans still flock to watch him play, captivated by the charisma and prowess that made him a legend. Even now, he embodies the essence of a rock star on the course.
However, Woods’ competitive edge has dulled. While he made the cut at The Masters in April, his performances in the PGA Championship and US Open were disappointing, missing the cut in both events.
The Open Championship, notorious for its cold and wet conditions, presents a significant challenge for Woods. His surgically repaired body performs optimally in warmer, drier climates that allow his muscles to loosen up. The harsh weather conditions impacted the entire field during Thursday’s first round at Royal Troon, with stars like Rory McIlroy and Bryson DeChambeau struggling. Woods also faltered, shooting a disappointing 79 (8), placing him fourteen shots behind the unexpected leader, Danny Brown.
Physically, Woods did not appear to be in bad shape. Yet, his game lacked the polish, particularly around and on the greens. It was a stark contrast to the Tiger Woods who clinched 15 major titles.
Traditionally, major championships feature Woods in groups with dedicated streaming coverage on all 18 holes, recognizing the fans’ desire to see him in action. However, the Open Championship has made a bold decision. Tomorrow, Tiger Woods will not be in a featured group. His group, including Xander Schauffele and Patrick Cantlay, was not selected for coverage.
Given Woods’ 4:25 AM ET tee time and his substantial fourteen-shot deficit, the decision may be understandable. Yet, fans hope this doesn’t become a trend. Even if Woods is no longer a contender, watching him play in the majors remains a cherished experience.
