Tiger Woods Open future clear to see in telling practice round with Justin Thomas

Could This Be Tiger Woods’ Final Act at The Open? A Practice Round with Justin Thomas Offers Clues

 

In the golden light of a Scottish morning, Tiger Woods walked the historic links of Royal Troon, preparing for what many speculate could be his final Open Championship. Accompanied by good friends and fellow PGA Tour stars Justin Thomas and Max Homa, Woods seemed at ease, sharing jokes and enjoying the camaraderie. But beneath the surface, a sense of finality loomed over the 15-time major champion.

 

Monday’s practice round was a continuation of Woods’ preparations for The Open, but it was hard to ignore the undercurrent of nostalgia and uncertainty. Just a month ago, at Pinehurst No. 2, Woods’ struggles at the US Open were painfully apparent as he missed the cut, finishing seven-over-par. His post-round comments hinted that both the US Open and The Open Championship might be slipping out of his reach forever. “As far as my last Open Championship or US Open Championship, I don’t know what that is. It may or may not be,” he admitted, an uncharacteristic revelation from the usually guarded legend.

 

The Troon practice round offered a glimpse into the current state of Woods’ game and physical condition. Despite the jovial atmosphere, Woods’ movement was noticeably hampered, a lingering effect of his 2021 car accident and subsequent surgeries. His gait was awkward, and even the simple act of tying his shoelace seemed a challenge. On the course, Woods consciously avoided bunkers, perhaps wary of the strain it would put on his body.

 

As Woods, Thomas, and Homa approached each green, they engaged in typical pre-tournament routines—dropping balls in various positions to practice their short game. However, Woods’ cautious approach was evident. While his friends practiced bunker shots, Woods stayed clear, likely to avoid aggravating his injuries.

 

Despite his physical limitations, Woods still commanded the largest galleries. Fans flocked to see every shot he took, a testament to his enduring star power. Even among two of the game’s current top players, it was Woods who drew the crowd’s attention. A beautifully executed splash shot from a bunker on the 14th reminded everyone of his still formidable skill. Yet, there were moments of disappointment too, as some fans grumbled when Woods did not stop for autographs—a common practice for players during rounds.

 

Woods’ reluctance to engage with fans extended to a volunteer’s selfie request, which was firmly denied by his security detail. This brief interaction highlighted the protective bubble around Woods, necessary for preserving his focus and energy.

 

There is an often-made comparison between golf and boxing, suggesting that the last thing a boxer loses is his power. For Woods, this rings true. Despite the wear and tear, his drives still pack a punch. On the par-four 12th, he outdrove Thomas and Homa by 30 yards, demonstrating the raw power that has always been a hallmark of his game. However, his putting left much to be desired, as he struggled to find the right pace on Troon’s greens.

 

While Thomas and Homa meticulously lined up putts from various angles, Woods seemed less concerned with perfection. By the time they reached the 16th tee, his patience appeared to wane. He stood alone with his caddie, waiting as his friends continued their detailed preparations on the previous hole. Nonetheless, the mood remained light-hearted, with Homa and Thomas joking about “odds” and prop bets as they played.

 

The trio received a warm reception from fans throughout the round, especially as they arrived at the 17th tee. Their practice session ended with a bit of playful competition, with Homa’s caddie flipping a tee on the 18th green, perhaps deciding who would buy the next round of drinks.

 

As Woods walked off the course, the question lingered: Is this the end of an era? Only time will tell if Royal Troon will be the final stage for one of golf’s greatest performers. For now, fans and fellow players alike will cherish every moment, knowing that each shot, each step, could be part of Tiger Woods’ swan song.