TIGER LOSES HIS BITE AT THE TAIL END

TIGER WOODS suffered his own last-hole nightmare at Winged Foot yesterday to finish eight shots behind playing partner Justin Thomas.

Colin Montgomerie and Phil Mickelson (right) both took double-bogey sixes on the 18th in 2006 to miss the US Open title.

Three-time champion Woods was level par at the end of 16 holes after nailing a 40-foot birdie before dropping a shot at 17. But the former world No.1 then chunked his chip like a 24-handcapper to the raised final green – with the ball nearly running back to his feet – before missing a five-foot bogey putt.

The reigning Masters champion, who missed the cut with two 76s in 2006, finished with a three-over 73 which only included six pars.

Woods (above) was asked six questions in his post-round press conference – and referred to the 18th hole four times. “I did not finish off the round like I needed to,” repeated the American superstar.

“I needed to finish off the round better, and I didn’t. We have a long way to go. This is a long marathon of a tournament.

“There’s a lot of different things that can go on. I just wish I would have finished off my round better.”

World No.3 Thomas said he wanted to have ”fun” this week – and started with a five-under 65 to take the clubhouse lead.

“Yeah, 65 is fun no matter where you play, especially at Winged Foot,” said the 2017 US PGA winner.

“It was a good day for me from the start. I’ve just played really, really solidly.

“I made sure all of my misses were in the right spot, and that’s what you have to do at a US Open.”

The third American Major champion in the group – US PGA winner Collin Morikawa – came home with a five-over 40 for a 76.

Former Masters champion Patrick Reed holed a 9-iron from 166 yards for an ace on the seventh on his way to a 66.

“It was my second one as a professional,” said the Texan. The first one was at Shell on 16 and last one was here.”