After a 14-month absence due to a car accident, Tiger Woods made his return to Augusta National for the 2022 Masters Tournament. Fans were thrilled to see the five-time Masters champion back in action, but expectations were tempered, considering his long break and ongoing battle with injuries. Despite finishing 13-over par at the end of the tournament, Woods proved that he still has what it takes to compete with the best in the world.
Tiger Woods’ History at Augusta National Golf Club
Woods has a storied history at Augusta National, having played in 24 Masters tournaments and won an impressive five Green Jackets. His first major tournament win came at Augusta in 1997, where he led from start to finish and became the youngest player ever to win the Masters at just 21 years old. In 2005, he won his fourth Masters title and joined golf legends Jack Nicklaus and Arnold Palmer as the only players to win the tournament four times.
Woods’ most dramatic triumph came in 2019 when he claimed his fifth Masters win, ending an 11-year drought without a major championship victory. The comeback was hailed as one of the greatest moments in sports history and cemented Woods’ status as an all-time great.
Tiger Woods’ Most Memorable Moments at The Masters
Over his career, Woods has provided plenty of memorable moments on the hallowed grounds of Augusta National. In 2001, he completed the “Tiger Slam” by winning all four major championships in a row, becoming the first player in history to do so.
In 2005, Woods tied a Masters record with seven consecutive birdies en route to a playoff win against Chris DiMarco. He also saved par with a broken four-iron earlier in the tournament after hitting a tree on his tee shot.
However, not all of Woods’ moments at Augusta have been positive. In 2013, he was embroiled in controversy after taking an improper drop on the 15th hole resulting in a two-stroke penalty. He finished tied for fourth that year.
Dramatic Moments in The Masters Tournament
Augusta National has produced many unforgettable moments over the years, from Gene Sarazen’s albatross on the 15th hole in 1935 to Jack Nicklaus’ inspiring final round in 1986. Phil Mickelson’s three Masters titles and Bubba Watson’s miraculous shot to win in a playoff against Louis Oosthuizen in 2012 are some of the other highlights.
In 2016, Jordan Spieth’s infamous collapse on the back nine of the final round allowed Danny Willett to claim his first major championship. Meanwhile, Greg Norman’s six-shot lead disappearing against Nick Faldo in 1996 remains one of golf’s most heartbreaking moments.
Conclusion:
Despite not being at his best, Woods’ return to Augusta National was still a cause for celebration. His legacy at the Masters is secure, and his comeback win in 2019 remains one of golf’s greatest moments. As always, The Masters provided plenty of drama and excitement, showing once again why it is one of the most prestigious events in sports.
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