Woods’ latest shot at redemption on thin ice TIME TAKES TIGER TOLL
TIGER WOODS’ bid to win the US PGA and an automatic Ryder Cup spot have been put on ice in stormy St Louis.
The ex-world No.1 needs his first Major victory in over a decade to qualify for the top eight in Jim Furyk’s team.
But the American superstar said he spent Monday in an ice bath to ease his aching body – and torrential rain yesterday saw him squeeze in only five practice holes on a course he has never played.
Woods, who finished tied 31st at the WGC-Bridgestone Invitational on Sunday, said: “I needed that day off. Yesterday I spent a few times in the ice bath just trying to get some inflammation down and just trying to get ready for the rest of the week. And a lot of stretching. The inflammation was everywhere. I’m 42 and I’ve had four back surgeries.”
Woods has never played the Bellerive Country Club as he was injured for the BMW Championship in 2008 and the 2001 WGC-Amex was cancelled because of 9/11.
“I literally haven’t stepped foot on this golf course since that week,” he said. Woods will be in Paris next month as Ryder Cup vice-captain – or a wildcard.
Before the final qualifying event for the US team, he was asked if he would pick himself. “I think he’s trying to get into the topeight,” said the world No.51.
“I’m trending. And I like my chances in match play.” He also liked his chances of winning The Open after a stunning bunker shot at the 10th before he fell from the top of the leaderboard.
“I thought that was the tournament,” Woods admitted. “I didn’t win the tournament, but the fact that I was able to hit that shot was special.”
He will play with two-time winner Rory McIlroy and defending champion Justin Thomas in the first two rounds.