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. Woods got off to a promising start, making a birdie on the par-5 10th hole. He converted an 11-foot birdie on the 10th and followed it up with crucial par saves from similar distances on Nos. 12 and 13. However, a missed opportunity on the short par-4 14th began to reveal the challenges ahead.
Early Setbacks
His first missed fairway on the 16th hole led to his first dropped shot of the round. A miscalculated second putt on the par-3 17th compounded his troubles. Despite these setbacks, Woods still remained within earshot of the lead after making the turn in an even-par 36. However, the struggles on the front nine turned out to be less forgiving.
Front Nine Woes
As Woods advanced to the front nine, his putter began to betray him. He carded five bogeys over a seven-hole stretch, drifting down the leaderboard and eventually finding himself in a tie for 87th, just a stroke off the projected cutline. Woods made a crucial birdie on the par-5 5th, followed by ticklish par saves from 8 feet on the intimidating par-3 6th. An impressive 17-footer on No. 7 seemed to momentarily stabilize his round. Nonetheless, the pressure on the putter cost Woods another shot on the par-4 8th.
Inconsistent Play
Overall, Woods's play was hindered by inconsistencies throughout his round. While he successfully hit 12 of 14 fairways, he managed to hit only 10 greens in regulation. This lack of precision gave him just one birdie chance across the par-4s, ultimately leading to six bogeys in his last 12 holes. To remain competitive, Woods will need to see significant improvement in his approach shots.
Tactical Approach
Woods demonstrated a tactical approach around Pinehurst No. 2, often playing conservatively and aiming for the fat sides of greens. These tactics, however, require better precision and execution. Woods's irons must start cooperating if he aims to claw his way back into the tournament. Although he may have had a rocky start at the 2024 U.S. Open, his performance is far from over.
Woods's Resilience
Woods 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. Despite the early troubles, he has the experience and determination to make a comeback. The upcoming rounds will be crucial for him to regain momentum and move up the leaderboard.
Quotes
"Woods's birdie bid from 11 feet failed to threaten the hole," one observer noted. "When his second putt on the par-3 17th fell by the wayside, Woods put his second square on the scorecard," reflecting on the compounded troubles he faced on the back nine.
On a more positive note, another commentator highlighted Woods's skill on the 5th hole: "A birdie on the par-5 5th came courtesy of a towering 4-iron from the middle of the fairway." However, the pressure on the putter cost Woods one last shot on the par-4 8th, adding to his challenges for the day.
Despite the up-and-down nature of his round, Tiger Woods's performance on the opening day of the 2024 U.S. Open has left fans and analysts alike anticipating his next move. His gritty determination and tactical understanding of the game continue to make him a formidable competitor, capable of turning the tables even in the toughest conditions.