Tiger Woods explains reason behind tearful exit from Open (VIDEO) – RT Sport News
[ad_1]
Golf icon Tiger Woods admitted the respect shown to him by friend (and occasional rival) Rory McIlroy on the 18th hole of what is likely to be his final St Andrews Open appearance was the reason for his tears on Friday.
Woods, 46, was visibly emotional as he failed to make the cut in the 150th iteration of the Open, finishing with a score of nine over par, and was reduced to tears as he down the fairway to complete his last hole.
Although he was a three-time winner of the event (and twice at St Andrews), it is well known that Woods’ best days are behind him – with his participation in even the major remarkable given the serious injuries he has suffered. he suffered in a serious car accident in February 2021.
Woods’ walk to the 18th green was also noted by Rory McIlroy. The Irishman, playing on an adjacent hole, tipped his cap at the American as he took what is likely his last step to the green as a professional on the world famous Scottish course.
And Woods later admitted that it was that show of respect that made him snap.
“No, not then“Woods said when asked if the crowd’s reaction was the motivation behind his emotions.
“As I walked further along the fairway, I saw Rory right there. He tipped me.
“It was pretty cool, the nods I got from the guys as they walked out and I walked in, just the respect, that was pretty cool. And from the level of player fraternity, it’s good to see that and feel that.
“Then as I got into the shot, or closer to the green and further into the hole, the ovation got louder and you could feel the heat and you could feel the people on both sides. I felt like the whole tournament was there.
“They all enjoyed what I did here during the years I played, I won two championships here, my success at the British Open and all my times that I enjoyed here in Scotland and playing, j felt like it just came to a head right there as I walked towards my golf ball.”
The Open isn’t expected to return to St. Andrews until 2030, so it remains highly unlikely that Woods will ever have the chance to record a third victory on the course (and a fourth British Open title overall).
He added: “It was very moving for me. I have been coming here since 1995. I think the next [at St Andrews] could happen in 2030, I don’t know if I’ll be able to play physically by then.
“For me, it felt like it could have been my last British Open here at St Andrews. The fans, the ovation and the warmth, it was an incredible feeling.
“The collective warmth and understanding, they understand what golf is and what it takes to be an Open champion. I was lucky and blessed to win twice here.
“It was very emotional, just because I don’t know how my health will be. I feel like I could play future British Opens, but I don’t know if I can play long enough until he comes back here.”
You can share this story on social media:
[ad_2]
Rt
