Charlie Woods, Tiger Woods’ son, has taken another step toward following in his father’s footsteps by competing in a local US Open qualifier.
The 15-year-old’s father has won the prestigious championship three times, and Woods Junior is now poised to participate in an 18-hole qualifying in Florida for the opportunity to compete. His date with destiny will take place on April 25 at The Legacy Golf & Tennis Club in Port St. Lucie, with the possibility teeing off at 8:18 a.m. ET.
The job ahead of young Charlie, Tiger’s only son and a 15-time major winner, is daunting; with 84 aspirants in the qualifying round, only 36 will advance to the final qualifier in June. Charlie made news earlier this year when he attempted to qualify for the Cognizant Classic, but was unsuccessful.
It is only the fourth time the famous event will be held at the iconic North Carolina course, which Charlie’s father has never won at. It’s unlikely that he’ll be thinking about outdoing his famed father’s achievements in Port St. Lucie while he tries to make the grade on his own.
The United States Golf Association has received over 10,000 entries for the US Open this year, marking the third time that interest has reached such heights. at order to narrow things down, qualifying will take place at 109 local venues across 44 states and Canada over the next two months.
The top prospects will then descend on the 13 final qualifying sites for a chance to compete in the tournament itself, which will take place in late May and early June. Known as “Golf’s Longest Day” among golfers, those competing will face 36 holes in their final push for a tee spot.
Charlie appears to be under no pressure from his father, which is most likely due to Tiger’s own father, Earl Woods, taking a notably severe approach to ensuring his son was poised to become an excellent player. Three years ago, Tiger stated, “He is his own person.” That was one of the things we made certain of: Charlie is Charlie. I am proud of whichever path he takes.”
“They’re all smiling. Tiger is clearly teaching him the proper methods, but there isn’t the same level of passion that Earl had with him,” the person noted. “It’s a complete bonding experience. Tiger can be playful and funny around Charlie. It’s not ‘all work and no play’ as Earl used to say.”
Tiger has previously spoken glowingly of his bonding moments with his kid on the golf course, telling ESPN: “Anytime I get an opportunity to spend time with my son, it’s always amazing. And to do it in a competitive environment, the last several years have been wonderful, and we’re excited to do it again.”
Even while caddying for Charlie in the Last Chance Regional in Florida in September 2023, it was evident that Woods Sr. was enjoying taking a backseat on the course for a change and spending time with his son. He said, “We just live in our own little world.” We take one shot at a time.”
Leave a Reply