Early Momentum Fades for Tiger Woods at 2024 U.S. Open
Early Surge
At the beginning of the 2024 U.S. Open at Pinehurst No. 2, Tiger Woods briefly touched the lead, bringing a surge of hope to his fans. Woods made an impressive birdie on the par-5 10th hole, converting an 11-foot birdie putt that showcased his renowned putting skills. This early success was bolstered by crucial par saves from similar distances on holes 12 and 13.
However, Woods's momentum was soon hindered by a missed opportunity on the short par-4 14th hole. His first missed fairway occurred on the 16th hole, leading to his first dropped shot of the tournament. An unfortunate miscalculation on his second putt on the 17th further compounded his troubles, yet Woods remained within earshot of the lead, completing the back nine in an even-par 36.
Struggles on the Front Nine
Challenges began to mount as Woods transitioned to the front nine. His putter, initially an asset, started to betray him. Over a stretch of seven holes, Woods carded five bogeys, causing a significant drop on the leaderboard. From being a frontrunner, he found himself in a tie for 87th place, just a stroke off the projected cutline.
Despite these setbacks, Woods demonstrated grit. He made a crucial birdie on the par-5 5th, thanks to a towering 4 iron shot from the middle of the fairway. Further impressive play included a tricky par save from 8 feet on the intimidating par-3 6th and a remarkable 17-footer on No. 7.
Even with these highlights, the relentless pressure on Woods's putter was evident. It ultimately cost him another shot on the par-4 8th. Inconsistencies plagued his overall play, despite hitting 12 of 14 fairways. Woods managed to hit only 10 greens in regulation and gave himself just one birdie chance across the par-4s.
Assessing the Round
The final tally for Woods's opening round included six bogeys over his last 12 holes, underlining the need for significant improvement in his approach shots if he is to claw his way back into contention. Woods's tactical approach around Pinehurst No. 2 involved playing conservatively, often aiming for the safe sides of greens. While a sound strategy, these tactics demand better precision and execution.
Throughout the round, Woods's iron play needed to be more cooperative. The inconsistencies and missed opportunities highlight the fine margins that make or break a tournament like the U.S. Open.
A Rocky Start, but Hope Remains
It has been a rocky start for Tiger Woods at the 2024 U.S. Open, but his performance is far from over. Woods has proven time and again his resilience and ability to bounce back from adversity. Given his storied career and experience, discounting Woods would be premature.
With a focused approach and slight tweaks to his game, Woods remains within striking distance. His history of comebacks serves as a reminder that even in the face of early struggles, potential for redemption and triumph lurks.
Quotes from the Day
"Woods's birdie bid from 11 feet failed to threaten the hole," highlighting the putting challenges he faced.
"When his second putt on the par-3 17th fell by the wayside, Woods put his second square on the scorecard," illustrating a crucial moment of struggle during the round.
"A birdie on the par-5 5th came courtesy of a towering 4 iron from the middle of the fairway," a positive note in Woods's mixed round.
"The pressure on the putter cost Woods one last shot on the par-4 8th," summarizing the tangible cost of his putting difficulties.
As Woods heads into the next rounds, all eyes will be on whether he can harness his remarkable experience and skill to fight back into contention. The 2024 U.S. Open at Pinehurst No. 2 has just begun, and the stage is set for more drama to unfold.