Early Momentum Fades for Tiger Woods at 2024 U.S. Open
At the start of the 2024 U.S. Open at Pinehurst No. 2, Tiger Woods briefly flashed moments of his former brilliance as he touched the lead. His early momentum, however, proved to be fleeting.
Early Surge
Woods made a promising start by birdieing the par-5 10th hole. He converted an 11-foot birdie putt and then made crucial par saves from similar distances on No. 12 and No. 13, indicating a solid start.
However, a missed opportunity at the short par-4 14th hole began to signal a shift in his fortunes. His first missed fairway on the 16th hole led to his first dropped shot. A miscalculated second putt on No. 17 further compounded his difficulties. Despite these setbacks, Woods managed to finish his back nine in an even-par 36, keeping him within striking distance of the lead as he made the turn.
Struggles on the Front Nine
The front nine proved to be less forgiving for Woods. His putter, which had been reliable earlier, began to betray him. Over a span of seven holes, Woods carded five bogeys, causing him to drift down the leaderboard. He found himself in a tie for 87th, just a stroke off the projected cutline.
Despite these struggles, Woods made a crucial birdie on the par-5 5th hole. He also managed ticklish par saves from 8 feet on the intimidating par-3 6th and made an impressive 17-footer on No. 7. However, the pressure on his putter cost him another shot on the par-4 8th hole.
Inconsistencies and Tactical Approach
Woods's overall play was hindered by inconsistencies throughout his round. While he hit 12 of 14 fairways, he managed to hit only 10 greens in regulation, giving himself just one birdie chance across the par-4s. As a result, he bogeyed six of his last 12 holes.
Woods demonstrated a tactical approach around Pinehurst No. 2, often playing conservatively and aiming for the fat sides of greens. However, these tactics require better precision and execution. Woods will need significant improvement in his approach shots if he is to claw his way back into the tournament. His irons, in particular, must start cooperating.
Looking Ahead
While Woods's start at the 2024 U.S. Open can be described as rocky, his performance is far from over. He 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. His journey, as always, promises to be compelling, with the potential for unforgettable moments still lying ahead.
Quotes
“Woods's birdie bid from 11 feet failed to threaten the hole.”
“When his second putt on the par-3 17th fell by the wayside, Woods put his second square on the scorecard.”
“A birdie on the par-5 5th came courtesy of a towering 4 iron from the middle of the fairway.”
“The pressure on the putter cost Woods one last shot on the par-4 8th.”
As the 2024 U.S. Open progresses, all eyes will be on Tiger Woods as he navigates the challenging Pinehurst No. 2. Time will tell if the veteran golfer can summon his legendary resolve to make a push for the leaderboard.