“Tiger’s Legacy Echoes at Torrey Pines: Players Reflect on Iconic Moments”

Tiger Woods left an indelible mark on Torrey Pines during a remarkable 14-year span of his PGA Tour career, securing seven of his 82 victories at the renowned southern California course. From his initial triumph in 1999 to his final win in 2013, including the unforgettable 2008 U.S. Open against Rocco Mediate, Woods became synonymous with success at Torrey Pines.

Although absent from the 2024 Farmers Insurance Open, players like Max Homa and Xander Schauffele couldn’t help but reminisce about Tiger’s legacy during their pre-tournament press conferences.

Homa fondly recalled skipping school to witness Woods in action, emphasizing the awe-inspiring combination of grace and power displayed by the golf legend, particularly on challenging holes like the 15th. Reflecting on the unique aura surrounding Tiger, Homa shared a story of a fog delay, highlighting how Woods seemed to influence the entire golfing world.

Keegan Bradley, too, had his “Welcome to the PGA Tour” moment courtesy of Tiger at Torrey Pines. Bradley described being in awe during his rookie season, with Tiger’s presence on the putting green turning it into a surreal experience. He acknowledged the lasting impact of Woods on certain holes, citing memories of critical shots in U.S. Opens.

When asked if he ever tried to replicate Tiger’s shots, Bradley admitted to not actively mimicking them but emphasized the lasting imprint of specific moments, like Tiger’s eagle putt on the 13th that breaks right to left and then back left to right.

For Michael Kim, a Torrey Pines High School graduate, memories of Tiger’s iconic shots flood back whenever he returns to the property. Recalling attempts to recreate Tiger’s U.S. Open-winning putt on the 18th, Kim acknowledged the shared experience of golf enthusiasts attempting to imitate Tiger’s fist pump.

Xander Schauffele recounted a unique perspective on Tiger’s performance during the 2008 U.S. Open. Climbing a tree on the 18th hole, Schauffele gained an elevated vantage point to witness Tiger’s crucial putt, capturing the intense atmosphere of that historic moment.

As these players compete at Torrey Pines, Tiger Woods’ legacy continues to cast a long shadow over the course, with memories of his extraordinary feats shaping the experiences of both seasoned professionals and aspiring golf enthusiasts.