Early Momentum Fades for Tiger Woods at 2024 U.S. Open
Early Surge
At the beginning of the 2024 U.S. Open at Pinehurst No. 2, Tiger Woods briefly touched the lead with an impressive birdie on the par-5 10th hole. He converted an 11-foot birdie putt and followed it up with crucial par saves from similar distances on Nos. 12 and 13. Despite a missed opportunity on the short par-4 14th, Woods maintained composure. However, his first missed fairway on the 16th hole led to his first dropped shot, and a miscalculated second putt on No. 17 compounded his troubles. Despite these setbacks, Woods remained within earshot of the lead after making the turn in even-par 36.
Struggles on the Front Nine
Woods’s performance on the front nine turned out to be less forgiving. His putter began to betray him, leading to five bogeys over a seven-hole stretch. As a result, Woods drifted down the leaderboard, sitting in a tie for 87th and just a stroke off the projected cutline.
Nevertheless, Woods made a crucial birdie on the par-5 5th, and ticklish par saves from 8 feet on the intimidating par-3 6th. An impressive 17-footer on No. 7 showcased his resilience. Yet, the pressure on the putter cost Woods another shot on the par-4 8th. Overall, Woods’s round was hindered by inconsistencies. Although he hit 12 of 14 fairways, he managed to hit only 10 greens in regulation and gave himself just one birdie chance across the par-4s. He bogeyed six of his last 12 holes.
Woods’s Tactical Approach
Throughout his round, Woods demonstrated a tactical approach around Pinehurst No. 2, often playing conservatively and aiming for the fat sides of greens. However, these tactics require better precision and execution. For Woods to claw his way back into the tournament, his irons must start cooperating.
Rocky Start but Not Over
Despite a rocky start at the 2024 U.S. Open, Woods's performance is far from over. Beyond the statistics and missed opportunities, he has shown time and again his ability to bounce back from adversity. With a focused approach and slight tweaks to his game, Woods remains within striking distance.
Quotes from the Round
"Woods's birdie bid from 11 feet failed to threaten the hole."
"When his second putt on the par-3 17th fell by the wayside, Woods put his second square on the scorecard."
"A birdie on the par-5 5th came courtesy of a towering 4 iron from the middle of the fairway."
"The pressure on the putter cost Woods one last shot on the par-4 8th."
In summary, Tiger Woods faced initial success followed by mid-round struggles during the first day of the 2024 U.S. Open. His early birdie and crucial par saves momentarily put him in contention, but inconsistencies and putter trouble led to a decline in standings. Despite these setbacks, Woods's tactical play and past resilience suggest he could still bounce back in the following rounds.