Hero World Challenge 1R 18th Place
4 Birdies, 5 Bogeys, 1 Double Bogey
Powerful Long Drive Up to 335 Yards Showcasing Strength
The 'Golf Emperor' Tiger Woods (USA) smoothly completed his comeback after 7 months.
On the 30th (local time), he recorded a 3-over-par 75 in the first round of the PGA Tour's 'special event' Hero World Challenge (total prize money $4.5 million) held at Albany Golf Course (par 72, 7,449 yards) in New Providence, Bahamas. He ranked 18th out of 20 participants. Woods had suffered aftereffects from a traffic accident in 2021, and after withdrawing from the Masters in April, he underwent surgery on his right ankle and focused on rehabilitation.
Tiger Woods is making an approach shot on the 3rd hole of the 1st round at the Hero World Challenge. [New Providence (Bahamas) = AP·Yonhap News]
Woods made 4 birdies, 5 bogeys, and 1 double bogey. Over 13 holes, he exchanged 3 birdies and 3 bogeys, maintaining his score, and recorded an under-par score with a birdie on the 14th hole (par 4). However, his late-game stamina was disappointing. After a tee shot mistake on the 15th hole (par 5) resulted in a double bogey, he faltered with consecutive bogeys on the 16th and 17th holes.
Woods hit a maximum drive of 335 yards. His average driving distance was 313.40 yards. However, his fairway hit rate was 46.15%, and his greens in regulation rate was 55.56%. Due to a lack of competitive rhythm, his scrambling ability to save par or better when missing the green was limited to 37.50%.
Although Woods showed signs of leg discomfort during the round, he displayed a powerful swing, announcing a spectacular return. Immediately after the round, he said with a smile, "I hit a lot today. But the last shot was good." He added, "There were various variables, but I was satisfied with my performance. I plan to return to my lodging after weight training."
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