Just over 2 years removed from the famous car accident, Tiger Woods finds himself in a position he’s rarely experienced. He is no more the hunted. After being the #1 golfer in the PGA for several years, Tiger’s performance on the golf course has taken a significant turn for the worst and understandably so. Woods has since dropped to #3 in the world and for the first time I can ever remember, people are writing him off.
The other day I was watching the Jim Rome Show and he talked with a guest about “if Tiger will ever get back to the Tiger we once knew”. I can’t remember who the guest was, but I have seen him on the show before. Anyways, this guy proceeded to say how Tiger was getting old and was past his prime. He talked about how he doesn’t have the hunger anymore and he will never regain his form of the past. “He’ll be lucky to get a couple more majors before he’s done” he says. Are you kidding me?! Now, if we were talking about just an average or good athlete, I might be able to agree with that…but we’re not. Tiger Woods has never been just an average or good athlete…he is the greatest golfer to ever walk the earth. He’s Tiger Woods for god sake!!
Yes, he has struggled significantly over the past two years, but how can you blame the guy. With everything going on in his life and having it forced to the forefront of the media, I can’t imagine how much of a distraction that would be. I understand he did what he did and got what was coming to him, but the question isn’t about his character as a person…it’s about his ability and future as a golfer. I’d like to compare this to Michael Jordan’s situation. Jordan was the greatest player in his sport when he retired. He came back when he was ready and never skipped a beat. Obviously not the same situation, but my point is, he dealt with a very emotionally taxing situation and came back as strong as ever. And yes, I’m putting Tiger in the same category as Jordan, as they both once dominated their respective sports. Anyways, guys like these are one in a 100 million and I most certainly would never bet against them or count them out.
I guess what I’m saying is…never underestimate what we as people can overcome in our lives and what we can ultimately accomplish. And most definitely never underestimate the heart of a champion. The Tiger I know as a golfer has been one of the most intense, determined and focused athletes I have ever seen in my 20 plus years of following sports. There is no doubt in my mind that Tiger will rise from the ashes and put all of the “naysayers” to rest. Before the year is over, Tiger will be right back on top and we’ll all be talking about what an amazing comeback story it is. Just wait and see. Oh…he’ll be back! Guys like Tiger Woods just don’t fade away…
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