Tiger Woods faced a challenging day at Augusta National during the Masters tournament, posting his worst-ever 18-hole score at a major championship with a 10-over-par 82 in the third round. The five-time Masters champion acknowledged his rusty form, especially given his limited competitive play due to ongoing fitness battles, including recovering from a serious car crash in 2021.
Despite making a record-breaking 24th consecutive cut at the Masters on Friday, Woods struggled on Saturday’s moving day. Starting at one-over-par for the tournament, his front nine was turbulent, marked by three bogeys, two double bogeys, and just one birdie. The back nine didn’t fare much better, with five additional bogeys overshadowing a lone birdie at the 13th hole.
Woods, who has been plagued by injuries in recent years, admitted that his lack of playing time makes it challenging to replicate the competitive environment and navigate difficult courses like Augusta National. While he had shown glimpses of his former self in the earlier rounds, Saturday’s performance highlighted the ongoing struggle to regain top form.
The 15-time major champion’s physical condition has been a subject of concern, with past tournaments showcasing visible signs of discomfort and occasional limping. While Woods indicated that his surgically repaired ankle is no longer a source of pain, he acknowledged that other parts of his body now bear the brunt of his injuries.
Despite the setbacks, Woods remains determined to compete at the highest level, demonstrating resilience in the face of adversity. With a smile, he expressed his preference for warm and humid conditions, even amidst the forecast of thunderstorms. Despite the challenges, Woods remains focused on his recovery and future performances on the golf course.