Charlie Woods shed tears of disappointment as he was disqualified from the U.S. Junior Amateur for engaging in a violent altercation with…
Apparently, USGA Championships have become another family affair for Tiger Woods besides golf.
Charlie Woods, the 15-year-old son of a legendary golfer with 15 major championship wins, accomplished an impressive feat on Wednesday evening. He earned medalist honors at the Eagle Trace Golf Club qualifier in Coral Springs, Fla., shooting a respectable score of one-under (71). This secured him a spot among the elite group competing for glory at this year’s U.S. Junior Amateur Championship – marking him as only the second member of his family to do so and solidifying his standing within junior golf circles.
The USGA stated that Woods managed to conquer a difficult bogey-double start during the qualifier, by scoring five birdies throughout his final 16 holes. As a result of his performance, he finished the qualifier in first place with only one shot ahead of his competitors.
On Wednesday, the younger Woods stated that although his performance on the first two holes was lacking, he played exceptionally well for the remaining 16. He emphasized that he reminded himself to avoid any further bogeys or doubles and utilized opportunities to make birdies when they presented themselves. Notably, putting proved to be his greatest asset throughout as he successfully made several crucial putts.
The son of Tiger has gained immense popularity among golf enthusiasts since his debut at the parent-child PNC Championship. He has achieved even greater fame as he continues to excel in junior golf, particularly in Southern Florida. However, Charlie’s spotlight shifted after a remarkable and somewhat reminiscent performance like that of his father’s; now serving as one of Tiger’s swing coaches for several months.
During the recent U.S. Open, Tiger expressed his unwavering trust in him when it comes to both his swing and game. He emphasized that no one else in this world has observed as much of his golfing skills and swings as he did, making him the most reliable person for coaching advice. Specifically for putting techniques, Tiger instructs what aspects are important to focus on while practicing certain putts; however at times due to entrenched habits he forgets a few elements which is where guidance from him works wonders providing additional tips that enhance overall performance.
The U.S. Junior Amateur serves as a testament to the tenacity of Woods’ youngest child in his budding competitive career. Despite recent disappointments such as failing at Monday Qualifier for hometown PGA Tour event, the Cognizant Classic, Charlie continues to push forward. Toby Harbeck-Charlie’s high school coach-advised on his development as a player towards late last year.
According to Harbeck, there are specific pins that should be avoided but this player attempts them all. Once he can refrain from doing so and adjust his game slightly, he will improve greatly. However, the player has impressive power in his swing; at times it is effortless while other instances showcase an ultra-aggressive approach resulting in hitting beyond 300 yards with ease.
The attention will now divert towards Oakland Hills Country Club in Michigan, as the younger Woods participates in the U.S. Junior Amateur tournament – an event where his father triumphed three times during his junior golfing days. It is expected that there will be a lot of hype surrounding Woods’ performance since this would be his first major competition; however, he claims to relish such scrutiny and pressure.
He expressed his exhilaration at having qualified for the USGA championship, stating that the organization held significant value to him. He aspired to clinching victories in multiple USGA championships and ultimately winning the U.S. Open someday.
