Tiger Woods joins special group of Phil Mickelson, Jack Nicklaus and Arnold Palmer as he receives exemption

Tiger Woods, the illustrious golfer, has accepted a special exemption to participate in the upcoming U.S. Open at Pinehurst No. 2. This marks the first time the three-time champion has relied on an exemption to secure his place in the tournament. Since his debut in 1995 as the reigning U.S. Amateur champion, Woods has been exempt from qualifying for every U.S. Open until now. His exemption from winning the 2019 Masters expired last year, necessitating the special invitation.

This exemption was widely anticipated and is expected to be the first of many for Woods. The USGA, which governs the U.S. Open, is discerning about who receives exemptions, with the last one granted in 2021 to Phil Mickelson. Notably, golf legends like Jack Nicklaus and Arnold Palmer have also received special exemptions in the past.

Woods has a storied history with the U.S. Open, including memorable victories such as his record-breaking 15-shot win at Pebble Beach in 2000 and his triumph at Torrey Pines in 2008, achieved just days before undergoing knee surgery. Expressing his gratitude for the exemption, Woods emphasized the significance of the U.S. Open in shaping his career and conveyed his excitement to compete at Pinehurst, a venue with special meaning in the golfing world.

The U.S. Open holds a special place in Woods’ heart, as he has dominated amateur championships in the past, winning the U.S. Junior Amateur and U.S. Amateur titles multiple times. His impact on the game of golf is undeniable, with his nine USGA championships matched only by the legendary Bobby Jones. Earlier this year, Woods was honored with the prestigious Bob Jones Award by the USGA, further cementing his legacy in the sport.

Woods’ return to the U.S. Open after a hiatus since 2020 will undoubtedly be eagerly awaited by fans and enthusiasts alike. His absence from recent tournaments due to injury setbacks, including a car crash in 2021, has been keenly felt. Despite these challenges, Woods remains determined to compete at the highest level and add to his impressive list of accomplishments in the U.S. Open.

As the championship approaches, anticipation is building for Woods’ return to the U.S. Open stage. His presence adds a level of excitement and prestige to the tournament, making it a must-watch event for golf enthusiasts worldwide. With his undeniable talent and resilience, Woods continues to inspire fans and fellow competitors alike, ensuring that his legacy in the U.S. Open and the sport of golf will endure for generations to come.