Early Momentum Fades for Tiger Woods at 2024 U.S. Open
Early Surge
At the beginning of the 2024 U.S. Open at Pinehurst No. 2, Tiger Woods briefly touched the lead. Woods made a birdie on the par-5 10th hole, converting an 11-foot putt. He followed this up with crucial par saves from similar distances on Nos. 12 and 13. However, Woods missed an opportunity on the short par-4 14th, and his first missed fairway on the 16th hole led to his first dropped shot. A miscalculated second putt on No. 17 compounded his troubles. Nevertheless, Woods still remained within earshot of the lead after making the turn in an even-par 36.
Struggles on the Front Nine
The front nine turned out to be less forgiving for Woods. His putter began to betray him, and he carded five bogeys over a seven-hole stretch, causing him to drift down the leaderboard into a tie for 87th. Sitting just a stroke off the projected cutline, Woods made a crucial birdie on the par-5 5th, followed by ticklish par saves from 8 feet on the intimidating par-3 6th. He also sank an impressive 17-footer on No. 7, but the pressure on the putter cost Woods another shot on the par-4 8th.
Inconsistencies and Tactical Approaches
Despite hitting 12 of 14 fairways, Woods managed to hit only 10 greens in regulation. His overall play was hindered by inconsistencies throughout his round. He gave himself just one birdie chance across the par-4s and bogeyed six of his last 12 holes. Woods will need to see significant improvement in his approach shots if he hopes to claw his way back into the tournament.
Conservative Play
Woods demonstrated a tactical approach around Pinehurst No. 2, often playing conservatively and aiming for the fat sides of greens. These tactics require better precision and execution. His irons must start cooperating for him to make a comeback. Although he had a rocky start at the 2024 U.S. Open, his performance is far from over. Woods has shown time and again his ability to bounce back from adversity.
Future Hopes
With a focused approach and slight tweaks to his game, Woods remains within striking distance. The early momentum may have faded, but the resilience and fighting spirit of Tiger Woods cannot be discounted. As always, the world will be watching closely to see if he can turn the tide and 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."