Tiger Woods will make his first PGA Tour start of the season in the Genesis Invitational at Torrey Pines, just days after his mother, Kultida, passed away
Tiger Woods has confirmed he will play at the Genesis Invitational at Torrey Pines, despite the recent passing of his mother.
The star was set to compete from Feb. 13-16, but tragedy struck as his mother, Kultida, died at the age of 80 on Tuesday. Woods, though, is determined to participate just nine days after her death, aiming for his eighth victory at Torrey Pines.
The Genesis Invitational, which benefits Woods’ TGR Foundation, promises to be an emotionally charged event for many reasons. Originally slated for the Riviera Country Club in Pacific Palisades, it had to be relocated to Torrey Pines due to the devastating wildfires in Los Angeles. As players and fans gather, they’ll not only remember the impact of the fires but also support Woods during this difficult time.
In a touching statement, Woods paid tribute to his mother, saying, “It is with heartfelt sadness that I want to share that my dear mother, Kultida Woods, passed away early this morning. My Mom was a force of nature all her own, her spirit was simply undeniable.
“She was quick with the needle and a laugh. She was my biggest fan, greatest supporter, without her none of my personal achievements would have been possible. She was loved by so many, but especially by her two grandchildren, Sam and Charlie. Thank you all for your support, prayers and privacy at this difficult time for me and my family. Love you Mom.”
The iconic red shirt that Woods is known for wearing on the final day of competitions is a nod to his mother’s belief in its power. “My mom thought that, being born a Capricorn, red was my power color,” Woods revealed on The Today Show.
Despite personal challenges, Woods is set to participate in the Genesis Invitational, marking his first tournament of the season and his return to Torrey Pines since 2020. His most notable triumph at this course was the 2008 US Open victory.
This event also marks Woods’ first PGA Tour start since his surgery in September due to severe back pain. Although he has been absent from the PGA Tour, he has appeared twice in TGL, the new golf league he co-founded with Rory McIlroy.
Woods has expressed his intention to play fewer events in the future, carefully selecting the tournaments he enters, with the Genesis Invitational being one of his choices this year.
