ACCIDENT
Nicklaus, Magic Johnson, Mickelson, others express concern
– A vehicle driven by American golfer Tiger Woods lies on its side in Rancho Palos Verdes, California, on February 23, 2021, after a rollover accident. Woods was reported to have suffered 'multiple leg injuries.' Story on
WASHINGTON (AFP) — Golf legend Jack Nicklaus and US Open champion Bryson DeChambeau were among shocked supporters praying for Tiger Woods on Wednesday as the 15-time major champion was undergoing surgery for multiple leg injuries following a solo car crash near Los Angeles.
"Barbara and I just heard about Tiger's accident, and like everyone else, we are deeply concerned," tweeted Nicklaus, who won a record 18 major titles.
"We want to offer him our heartfelt support and prayers at this difficult time. Please join us in wishing Tiger a successful surgery and all the best for a full recovery."
DeChambeau was among players at a World Golf Championships event in Florida who were stunned, tweeting he was "heartbroken" and saying later he was confident Woods would return.
"He's one of the most impressive human beings I've ever met and I think he'll come back just fine," DeChambeau said. "He'll do everything in his power to come back."
The crash revived memories of NBA star Kobe Bryant being killed last year in a helicopter crash in the hills near Calabasas east of Los Angeles.
"It's sickening," said 2013 Masters winner Adam Scott of Australia. "He's our hero out here. You think guys like
Tiger and Kobe Bryant are untouchable, but they're not. I just hope he's all right."
"Something crazy happened to our sports world last year with Kobe, so I wouldn't say that dramatic of feelings, but man, you just hope Tiger's all right," said PGA standout Tony Finau said. "He's a strong cookie physically, mentally, so if someone's going to get through this, he will."
Second-ranked Spaniard Jon Rahm hopes Woods and his son Charlie have more events together like they played in December just before Woods underwent a fifth career back surgery.
"I just hope he can get out of the hospital after recovery and he can still play with his kids and have a normal life," Rahm said. "And I hope we can see him on the golf course as early as possible."
Woods, 45, has won 82 US PGA titles, level with Sam Snead for the all-time record.
"I hope Tiger is all right," thirdranked Justin Thomas said. "I'm sick to my stomach. It hurts to see one of my closest friends get in an accident."
"We are all pulling for you, Tiger," tweeted five-time major winner Phil Mickelson. "We are so sorry that you and your family are going through this tough time. Everyone hopes and prays for your full and speedy recovery."
Two English stars tweeted their support, Justin Rose writing: "We know how tough you are, we've seen it a hundred times. Hoping and praying you're ok my friend" while Ian Poulter said, "wishing a speedy recovery and I hope the injuries are not bad."
It wasn't only the golf world wishing the best for Woods.
Actress Jada Pinkett Smith, who was at a Monday golf event with Woods, tweeted: "Prayers up for the GOAT @TigerWoods... Don't take not even a MOMENT for granted! I know you're good because your Tiger within is a beast!!!"
NBA legend Magic Johnson tweeted: "Everyone send your prayers out to Tiger Woods! He was just in a bad car accident. Let us all pray for his speedy recovery."
‘ Everyone send your prayers out to Tiger Woods! He was just in a bad car accident. recovery.’— Let us all pray for his speedy MAGIC JOHNSON