Tiger Woods got choked up last week while walking on the Swilcan Bridge at The Old Course in Scotland, and fans think it’s because he might have just played the iconic golf course competitively for the last time. The golf legend, 46, was teary-eyed at The Open Championship while walking down the 18th fairway in St. Andrews. He waved to a crowd that embraced him with cheers and a five-minute standing ovation. Woods smiled while wiping away tears and tipping his cap to his fans.
A great Champion. #The150thOpen pic.twitter.com/WFXGxrkYvk
— The Open (@TheOpen) July 15, 2022
“I’m not retiring from the game,” Woods said at a news conference after his exit last week, “But I don’t know if I will be physically able to play back here again when it comes back around. I’ll be able to play future Opens, yes, but next time here, I doubt I’ll be competitive at this level.” As many fans will remember, Woods suffered a near-fatal car crash in February 2021 and almost had his leg amputated. While Woods made an impressive recovery, the accident did take a major toll on his health and worried fans that he might not be able to play for much longer. (Thankfully, Woods has stressed to fans in the days since that he is not only well, but also not thinking about retiring any time soon).
Tiger, we hope to see you at St Andrews again
Thank you#The150thOpen pic.twitter.com/1rdD8tZKKE
— The Open (@TheOpen) July 15, 2022
After his exit from The Open Championship, Woods headed to social media to thank St. Andrews for all the memories he made there, such as his 2000 and 2005 wins. “Although I am disappointed to be heading home, I had an incredible week at St Andrews celebrating 150 years of history and the game we love,” he tweeted. “I want to thank this place for all the memories it has given me, and to the fans today for having the walk up 18 be added to that list.”
