Tiger back on the prowl

> Faldo expects former world No. 1 to win another major after thrilling run in US PGA <

TIGER WOODS will win another major after the American’s thrilling run at the US PGA, says Sir Nick Faldo.

Woods recorded his lowest final round in a major – a closing round of 64 – to finish as runnerup behind Brooks Koepka.

US TV ratings were up 69% on last year with Tiger in the hunt – wearing red on the final day he nailed eight birdies in front of a raucous crowd, just like the old days.

And Faldo said the 42-yearold will add to his 15 major titles after four back surgeries and 10 years since his last triumph at the 2008 US Open.

“I didn’t think he had a hope in hell of winning another major – now you have to say he does,” admitted Faldo.

“You have to take off your hat and applaud his efforts. His determination to get back is incredible.

“That putt at 18 told him all he needs to know. He now knows that he can win again.

“This is the greatest comeback in golf. If he wins again, it would be the greatest comeback in sport.”

Woods recorded his first topfive major finish since the 2013 Masters despite being ranked tied 74th for fairways hit (32/56) and being three-over par after two holes on Thursday.

His four-round total of 266 was three shots better than his previous best at the 2000 Open at St Andrews.

The next three majors are at Augusta, Bethpage Black for the first May US PGA, and Pebble Beach – all venues where he has won before.

But with a record comparable to Woods in his pomp, Koepka has now claimed three of the last six majors in which he has played.

The back-to-back US Open champion now has the same number of majors as Jordan Spieth and just one fewer than Rory McIlroy.

But the 28-year-old from Florida carries a chip on both his shoulders for a perceived lack of respect and recognition.

After his third round, he told how he went to a local public gym this week with his friend Dustin Johnson and no one knew him.

“I use it as motivation,” said the new world No. 2. “You can’t hide my name when you’re on the top of the leaderboard.”

His short-game coach Pete Cowen said: “He is just a very laidback guy. I know he’s world No. 2 but in my view if you’ve won two majors in a season and only played in three, then you’re the man.”– Express Newspapers