Tiger Woods’ former rival ‘feels sorry for him’ and makes bold major declaration

Tiger Woods’ former rival Michael Campbell admits he “feels sorry” for the 15-time major champion after his steep decline, but the New Zealander believes Woods might have one more great win left in the tank.

Woods, 48, appeared a shadow of his former self at the majors this year, only making the cut at The Masters where he finished in 60th place, 27 shots adrift of winner Scottie Scheffler. Injuries from Woods’ playing career and a high-speed car crash in 2021 have caught up with him, dramatically limiting his playing schedule and his ability on the course has suffered.

Woods has faced calls to retire, most notably from Colin Montgomerie, but the former world No. 1 has shown no willingness to even consider walking away, snapping back at Montgomerie’s comments in his press conference ahead of The Open Championship last month.
Campbell, the 2005 US Open Champion who beat Woods to the title by two shots at Pinehurst No. 2, told Bunkered the American was “almost untouchable” in his heyday and it is sad to see his powers wane. “It’s a real shame. Through my whole career I played a lot with him,” Campbell said. “He was awesome. To see how he’s playing now… I feel sorry for him.”
But Campbell is not writing Woods off when it comes to winning a 16th major. He has urged him to transition onto the Champions Tour when he turns 50 late next year, when he would be permitted to use a golf cart to reduce the strain on his body.

That would enable Woods, who has played in just five events this year and will not return to action until December, to play more competitive golf and ensure he is adequately prepared for the majors. Campbell believes The Open Championship, in particular, is Woods’ best chance of adding another major title to his collection.

Tom Watson really proved a point back in 2009 when he nearly won the Open at 59,” Campbell explained, referencing the eight-time major winner’s near miss at Turnberry. “That’s where I think Tiger’s mind is right now

He’s not as long as he used to be. The only tournament that he could win where length isn’t a factor and it’s more about game management is an Open. I still think he can win a major.