Tiger Woods received a stroke of luck as heavy rain and wind predictions for Augusta, Georgia, overnight didn’t materialize. This turn of events bodes well for Woods, who was slated to tee off in the fourth-to-last group for Round 1.
A potential delay at the outset of Round 1 due to adverse weather conditions would have significantly impacted Woods’ ability to complete all 18 holes. This scenario would have likely resulted in him finishing Round 1 early on Friday, only to swiftly transition into Round 2 due to his early tee time.
While such a schedule adjustment might be manageable for most players, it poses a challenge for Woods, particularly considering his history of injuries, notably his fused ankle which led to an early withdrawal during last year’s Masters. Negotiating the intricate terrain of Augusta National, renowned for its demanding undulations, presents a significant concern for Woods and his ankle.
However, with the heavy rain veering south of Augusta during the night, Woods now has a more favorable outlook. His tee time has been rescheduled for 3:45 p.m., allowing him a wider window to complete most, if not all, of his round before sunset at approximately 7:56 p.m.
The prospect of playing 18+ holes on Friday would have undoubtedly tested Woods’ physical endurance and resilience. Yet, the likelihood of him completing a substantial portion of his round today has significantly improved with the passing of the heavy rain.
In essence, the altered weather conditions have provided Tiger Woods with an early reprieve, potentially minimizing the strain on his ankle and affording him a more favorable start to the Masters tournament.