Tiger Woods Shows True Colors in Response to Reporters After Difficult First Round at the Open

Tiger Woods remained defiant and gave no indication of considering retirement after a challenging first day at the 152nd Open Championship at Royal Troon. Despite a rough start, Woods is determined to push through and improve.

Woods, 48, posted an opening round of eight-over 79, struggling with missed greens, fairways, and multiple three-putts. Reflecting on his optimistic start to the year, where he aimed to play at least once a month, Woods admitted he had been too ambitious but remains committed to his fitness and improvement.

“I didn’t do a whole lot of things right today,” Woods said. “I made that putt on the third hole, and then I think I had, what, three three-putts today? I didn’t hit my irons very close, and I didn’t give myself a whole lot of looks today. I need to shoot something in the mid-60s tomorrow to get something going on the weekend.”

When questioned about his future on the golf course, especially after suggestions from observers like Colin Montgomerie that he should retire, Woods emphasized his physical improvement. “I’m physically feeling a lot better than I did at the beginning of the year. At the end of last year, it was tough, and I haven’t played a whole lot. I think that, as the year has gone on, I have gotten better.”

Woods expressed his frustration at not being able to play more but highlighted his strategic focus on major tournaments. “I just wish I could have played a little bit more, but I’ve been saving it for the majors just in case I do something pretty major and then take myself out of it.”

Looking ahead, Woods is hopeful for a better year in 2025. “Hopefully next year will be a little bit better than this year. I thought I could play a little bit more earlier in the year. I think I was a little bit too optimistic. I need to do a lot more work in the gym and keep progressing like we have.”

Woods is set to tee off early tomorrow alongside Xander Schauffele and Patrick Cantlay, determined to make a stronger showing in the following rounds.