Early Momentum Fades for Tiger Woods at the 2024 U.S. Open
Early Surge
At the beginning of the 2024 U.S. Open at Pinehurst No. 2, golf veteran Tiger Woods made a promising start, briefly touching the lead. His performance kicked off with a birdie on the par-5 10th hole, converting an 11-foot birdie putt. Woods managed to keep the momentum going with crucial par saves from similar distances on Nos. 12 and 13.
However, Woods missed a crucial opportunity on the short par-4 14th. His trouble began with his first missed fairway on the 16th hole, leading to his first bogey. The 17th hole saw his woes compound further as a miscalculated second putt added to his troubles. Despite these setbacks, Woods remained within earshot of the lead after making the turn with an even-par 36.
Struggles on the Front Nine
The front nine of the course proved less forgiving. Woods's putter began to betray him, resulting in five bogeys over a seven-hole stretch. These bogeys caused Woods to drift down the leaderboard, ending up in a tie for 87th. He found himself just a stroke off the projected cutline, teetering on the brink of elimination.
Even with his challenging round, Woods showed moments of brilliance. He made a crucial birdie on the par-5 5th and impressive par saves from 8 feet on the intimidating par-3 6th. Woods also drained a notable 17-footer on No. 7. However, the pressure on his putter ultimately cost him another shot on the par-4 8th. Inconsistencies in his overall play marred his performance, hitting 12 of 14 fairways but only managing 10 greens in regulation. Notably, he gave himself just one birdie chance across the par-4s and bogeyed six of his last 12 holes.
Need for Tactical Improvement
Woods has demonstrated a tactical approach around Pinehurst No. 2, often playing conservatively and aiming for the fat sides of greens. While this strategy is sound, it requires better precision and execution. To claw his way back into the tournament, Woods will need significant improvement in his approach shots. His irons, in particular, must start cooperating if he is to bounce back.
Despite his rocky start at the 2024 U.S. Open, Woods's performance is far from over. He has shown time and again his ability to rebound from adversity. With a focused approach and slight tweaks to his game, Woods remains within striking distance and can still make a significant impact as the tournament progresses.
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."
In summation, Tiger Woods’s first round at the 2024 U.S. Open was a tale of early promise overshadowed by mid-round struggles. While his initial performance suggested a strong showing, inconsistencies and missed opportunities took a toll. As always, Woods’s resilience and history of bouncing back will be key as he looks to turn things around in the coming rounds. Golf enthusiasts and critics alike will be closely watching to see if he can harness his tactical acumen and experience to reclaim a competitive position.