Tiger in the hunt

thinking you might never do this again makes it mean a lot more.

“Carnoustie was my first experience of links golf and I remember thinking at the time, ‘This is just the best’, because you have to use your mind and be creative.”

That’s why he firmly believes if he’s going to land another Major, then The Open could be the one.

Spinal fusion surgery and his advancing years are the key reasons Woods believes the artistry links golf calls for could give him his best opportunity of glory.

He pointed to golden oldies Tom Watson (below) and Greg Norman as prime examples of why he can win.

Woods said: “As far as the long term goes, I would say that because you don’t have to be long to play links style.

“Look what Tom

Watson did at Turnberry at 59, so it’s possible.

“Greg Norman was there at Birkdale when he was around 54ish, so it certainly can be done.

“Guys like Tom playing late in his career and doing well... there’s a reason why he won five Opens.”

Carnoustie is one of the toughest golfing venues and the baking summer has left the fairways scorched and with rapid run.

Woods added: “There’s not a lot of opportunities to hit a driver because the ball is running 80 yards.”

As if to emphasise the point, the American hit his seven iron 215 yards practising at the fourth – 35 yards longer than he normally hits the club.

“Each tournament I come to I feel a little bit better,” said Woods. “I have put myself in contention a couple of times, so who knows?”