Early Momentum Fades for Tiger Woods at 2024 U.S. Open
Early Surge
At the start of the 2024 U.S. Open at Pinehurst No. 2, Tiger Woods briefly touched the lead, igniting fans' excitement. Woods made a birdie on the par-5 10th hole, converting an 11-foot birdie putt. He then made crucial par saves from similar distances on Nos. 12 and 13. However, a missed opportunity on the short par-4 14th and his first missed fairway on the 16th hole led to his first dropped shot.
A miscalculated second putt on No. 17 compounded his troubles, but Woods still remained within earshot of the lead after making the turn in an even-par 36.
Struggles on the Front Nine
The front nine turned out to be less forgiving for Woods. His putter began to betray him as he carded five bogeys over a seven-hole stretch. Consequently, Woods drifted down the leaderboard, finding himself tied for 87th, just a stroke off the projected cutline.
Woods made a crucial birdie on the par-5 5th hole and executed ticklish par saves from 8 feet on the intimidating par-3 6th. He also made an impressive 17-footer on No. 7. However, the pressure on the putter cost Woods another shot on the par-4 8th.
Overall, Woods's play was hindered by inconsistencies throughout his round. Despite hitting 12 of 14 fairways, he managed to hit only 10 greens in regulation. He gave himself just one birdie chance across the par-4s and bogeyed six of his last 12 holes.
Tactical Approach
Woods demonstrated a tactical approach around Pinehurst No. 2, often playing conservatively and aiming for the fat sides of greens. These tactics require better precision and execution. To claw his way back into the tournament, Woods will need to see significant improvement in his approach shots.
Woods's irons must start cooperating. His performance may have had a rocky start at the 2024 U.S. Open, but it is far from over. 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.
Quotes
"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."