Tiger Woods, the golfing legend with 15 major titles to his name, will not grace the fairways at this week’s Congizant Classic held at PGA National, located in sunny Palm Beach, Florida. His absence follows his withdrawal from the Genesis Invitational at Torrey Pines due to the devastating loss of his mother, Kultida.
As Woods continues to grapple with personal matters away from the golf course, speculations are rife about his potential return at The Arnold Palmer Invitational or the Players Championship. These prestigious events could see the former world number one back in action, a sight eagerly anticipated by the golfing fraternity.
While we wait for his return, let’s delve into the archives and revisit a memorable moment from Woods’ illustrious career. Cast your minds back to 2012 at PGA National, where Woods showcased one of his most impressive rounds in PGA Tour history.
During the final round of the 2012 Honda Classic, now known as the Cognizant Classic, Woods put on a masterclass. He began the day at two under and proceeded to shoot an astounding eight-under 62, marking his lowest ever final-round score in PGA Tour history.
Woods’ performance that day, which included eagles on the third and 18th holes, saw him finish four under on both nines. However, despite his remarkable round, he finished two shots shy of Rory McIlroy, who ended the week at 12 under.
McIlroy navigated the treacherous Bear Trap flawlessly on the final day, securing a victory that propelled him to the world number one spot. Meanwhile, Woods, reflecting on his performance, said, “I had a great time out there… I’ve been hitting it like this, that’s the thing.”
With a stronger start to the week at PGA National, Woods could have added to his tally of 83 wins. Nonetheless, the year 2012 was far from disappointing for the golfing great.
In that year alone, Woods clinched three victories and raked in over $6 million in prize money. Following his second-place finish at the Honda Classic, he triumphed at the Arnold Palmer Invitational at Bay Hill, ending the week at 13 under.
After opting out of The Masters and Players Championship, Woods emerged victorious at the Memorial Tournament held at Jack Nicklaus’ Muirfield Village. His stellar performances continued, placing within the top 25 at the US Open and third at the Open Championship. He capped off the year with a win at the AT&T National.
Despite battling injury woes and dealing with personal matters off the course, Woods’ 2012 campaign was nothing short of extraordinary. As we await his return, one can only hope for more such stellar performances from this golfing maestro in the future.