He may be the greatest golfer in history, but Tiger Woods is worried most people will only remember him for his scandals off the course, The Post can reveal.
Despite facing a 2017 DUI and a scandalous affair with numerous women, the 48-year-old athlete has managed to overcome these embarrassing storms by showcasing his dominance on the golf course.
However, as Woods’ own career starts to decline, he has embarked on a mission to create a lasting legacy that goes beyond his past controversies. He plans to achieve this by passing on his golf clubs to his talented 15-year-old son, Charlie.
The insider affirms that he has endured a sex scandal, an accident, an arrest, and numerous personal struggles. However, it is important to acknowledge that he is no longer in his 20s or 30s, but rather approaching 50. Consequently, he must strive to make a lasting impact that will endure for eternity.
Charlie has exhibited many of his father’s innate abilities, although he may lack the same renowned determination and dedication.
In 2020, Tiger and Charlie participated in the PNC championship, marking their debut in a father/son tournament. Following the event, Woods expressed his pride to reporters, emphasizing how honored he felt to compete alongside his son.
Woods expressed, “I believe no words can truly capture it. The mere fact that Charlie and I got to share this incredible experience together will be cherished as lifelong memories.”
But it’s unclear whether Charlie will become the PGA’s next wunderkind. “He’s his father’s son, for sure,” says the insider, “but he doesn’t have the same focus that Tiger had as a teenager. Part of it is probably because Tiger doesn’t push Charlie as hard as [his father] Earl pushed him.”
Woods himself acknowledges Charlie may not follow in his footsteps. “I’m proud of whatever direction he chooses,” Woods said in an interview with PGA, “whether he sticks with the game or not.”
Despite achieving immense success, Woods has faced numerous challenges in his personal life.
On Black Friday in 2009, an unusual traffic incident occurred outside his residence in the Orlando area. Reports suggested that his then-wife, Elin Nordegren, had used a golf club to shatter a rear window, leading to speculation about a possible altercation between the couple.
It was a shocking turn of events when a tabloid broke the news that Woods was involved with Rachel Uchitel, a VIP party hostess in Las Vegas. Subsequently, more women stepped forward with tales of intimate encounters in parking lots and hotel rooms.
As his endorsements dwindled, Woods sought help for sex addiction. Following his treatment, Nordegren initiated divorce proceedings, reportedly receiving a $100 million settlement.
In 2017, Woods found himself in a predicament once more, as he was caught in a DUI incident in Palm Beach County. A toxicology report revealed the presence of five distinct drugs in his system, namely hydrocodone, hydromorphone, Xanax, Ambien, and THC, which is a component of marijuana.
Woods explained that he had consumed this combination of drugs to alleviate the pain in his back. Reflecting on the situation, he admitted, “I now understand that it was an error to do so without proper medical guidance.”
In February 2021, Woods got in a serious car crash that shattered his right leg. He has undergone multiple surgeries and extensive physical therapy.
So is Tiger done with golf?
In 2024, he participated in just one tournament but couldn’t finish it. During the Genesis Invitational in February, Woods had to withdraw in the middle of the second round due to what was initially called an “illness.” Later, Woods clarified that it was actually “influenza.”
Exciting news came on Thursday when Woods revealed his plan to compete in The Masters this April. It’s a tournament he has won an impressive 5 times, with his most recent victory in 2019. However, it’s worth noting that Woods has a reputation for signing up for tournaments that he doesn’t always complete.
“He’s always optimistic,” says the insider. “He hopes his body holds out.”
Off the course, Woods is taking a leadership role within the sport. Last weekend, he hosted a meeting with the head of the Public Investment Fund of Saudi Arabia to discuss future investment opportunities within the PGA Tour.
Webb Simpson, a member of the PGA Tour Policy Board, praised Woods’ recent display of leadership in an interview with Sports Illustrated. “He’s been incredibly involved,” Simpson mentioned. “He’s a fantastic leader and I truly believe he has embraced the role of our leader, and we greatly depend on him.”
Woods is expressing his desire to make a lasting impression on the sport.
According to the insider, he acknowledges that his prime days have passed, yet he possesses a wealth of untapped potential. His primary focus now is to create a lasting positive impact, as that is his utmost priority.
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