Early Momentum Fades for Tiger Woods at 2024 U.S. Open
At the onset of the 2024 U.S. Open at Pinehurst No. 2, Tiger Woods displayed a flash of his vintage self, briefly touching the lead. Starting his round on the back nine, Woods made an 11-foot birdie on the par-5 10th hole, showing promising signs of contention.
Strong Start on the Back Nine
Woods continued to impress with crucial par saves from similar distances on both the 12th and 13th holes. It appeared that his steady, strategic play could keep him near the top of the leaderboard. However, a missed opportunity on the short par-4 14th foreshadowed the struggles that would follow. His first missed fairway on the 16th caused his first dropped shot, and a miscalculated second putt on No. 17 added to his woes. Despite these setbacks, Woods managed to turn in an even-par 36 and remained within earshot of the lead.
Challenges on the Front Nine
The front nine proved to be less forgiving for Woods. His putter, which had saved him numerous times earlier, began to falter. The result was five bogeys over a seven-hole stretch, causing him to drift down the leaderboard and sit in a tie for 87th, just one stroke off the projected cutline.
Determined to regroup, Woods made a crucial birdie on the par-5 5th hole with a towering 4-iron shot from the middle of the fairway. He then made a challenging par save from 8 feet on the intimidating par-3 6th and followed it up with an impressive 17-footer on No. 7. Despite these sporadic moments of brilliance, the pressure on his putter cost him another shot on the par-4 8th hole.
Inconsistent Performance
Woods's overall play was marked by inconsistencies throughout his round. Although he hit 12 of 14 fairways, he only managed to hit 10 greens in regulation. This inconsistency hindered his ability to capitalize on scoring opportunities, giving himself just one birdie chance across the par-4s. Unfortunately, he bogeyed six of his last 12 holes, cementing a challenging day on the course.
The Road Ahead
To claw his way back into the tournament, Woods will need significant improvement in his approach shots. His tactical approach around Pinehurst No. 2 was evident, often playing conservatively and aiming for the fat sides of greens. However, these tactics require better precision and execution. Woods's irons must start cooperating if he wants to make a comeback.
Despite the rocky start, Woods's performance is far from over. He has repeatedly demonstrated his ability to overcome adversity and bounce back. With a focused approach and slight tweaks to his game, Woods remains within striking distance of contention. His story at the 2024 U.S. Open is still unfolding, and golf fans around the world will be eagerly watching to see if he can mount a heroic comeback.
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."