Tiger Woods’ complex racial identity has been a subject of discussion throughout his career. His father, Baron Woods, claimed African-American, Chinese, and Native American heritage, while his mother, Kultida Woods, is of Dutch, Chinese, and Thai descent. Woods, however, identifies as “Cablinasian,” embracing his Caucasian, black, Native American, and Asian roots.
This choice to define himself as multi-ethnic rather than solely African-American has drawn criticism. Some argued that by not identifying as black, Woods appeared to distance himself from that racial identity. Dr. Imani Perry, a Princeton professor, highlighted the perception that it seemed like Woods was avoiding being labeled as black.
In 2015, Woods explained that calling himself African-American would negate his mother’s racial background. Critics, including social science professor Scott Brooks, felt that Woods had isolated himself by denying any specific racial category, making it challenging for anyone to claim him.
Woods’ mother, Kultida, originally from Thailand, considers herself more American than Thai after living in the U.S. for 40 years. Despite this, she still feels a strong connection to her Thai upbringing. The article suggests that Tiger Woods’ decision to embrace his diverse heritage has sparked debates about racial identity and the challenges he faces in navigating societal expectations.