Early Momentum Fades for Tiger Woods at 2024 U.S. Open
At the beginning of the 2024 U.S. Open at Pinehurst No. 2, Tiger Woods briefly touched the lead, hinting at a promising start. However, Woods's early momentum soon faded as the round progressed, highlighting the challenges he faced on the famed course.
Early Surge
Woods began his round with a birdie on the par-5 10th hole, converting an 11-foot birdie putt. He solidified his early gains with crucial par saves from similar distances on Nos. 12 and 13. Nevertheless, a missed opportunity on the short par-4 14th foreshadowed the difficulties to come.
Mid-Round Struggles
On the 16th hole, Woods missed his first fairway, which led to his first dropped shot. Compounding his troubles, a miscalculated second putt on No. 17 further hampered his progress. Despite these setbacks, Woods made the turn in an even-par 36, keeping himself within earshot of the lead.
The front nine, however, proved less forgiving. Woods carded five bogeys over a seven-hole stretch as his putter began to betray him, causing him to drift down the leaderboard. By the time he reached the 8th hole, Woods was sitting in a tie for 87th, just a stroke off the projected cutline.
Struggling with Consistency
Throughout his round, Woods's overall play was marred by inconsistencies. While he hit 12 out of 14 fairways, he managed to hit only 10 greens in regulation. These inconsistencies gave him just one birdie chance across the par-4s. The final toll saw Woods bogey six of his last 12 holes, leaving him with considerable ground to make up.
One glimmer of hope came with a crucial birdie on the par-5 5th hole, thanks to a towering 4 iron from the middle of the fairway. He also managed ticklish par saves from 8 feet on the intimidating par-3 6th and an impressive 17-footer on No. 7. However, these moments of brilliance were offset by the pressure on his putter, leading to another dropped shot on the par-4 8th.
Tactical Approach
Woods demonstrated a tactical approach around Pinehurst No. 2, often playing conservatively and aiming for the fat sides of greens. While this strategy showcased discipline, it also required better precision and execution. For Woods to claw his way back into the tournament, his irons must start cooperating and providing more scoring opportunities.
Looking Ahead
Despite the rocky start, Woods’s performance is far from over. Throughout his career, Woods has shown an exceptional ability to bounce back from adversity. With a focused approach and slight adjustments to his game, Woods remains within striking distance at the 2024 U.S. Open.
The challenges of Pinehurst No. 2 have tested Woods's execution and mental fortitude. However, the tournament is still young, and Woods's tactical approach, combined with his legendary ability to perform under pressure, gives him a fighting chance to make a strong comeback.
As the U.S. Open continues, fans and analysts will closely watch how Woods adapts and responds to the demanding conditions. His potential for a resurgence remains, making the 2024 U.S. Open an event full of anticipation and excitement.
"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."