Tiger Woods faced a new kind of challenge at the SoFi Center, and it wasn't on the fairway. The PGA Tour veteran struggled with TGL's new technological format. His post-match comments revealed an obstacle he didn't see coming.

While representing Jupiter Links GC in the TGL Playoff Finals, Woods struggled to adjust to the Los Angeles Golf Club, as the new technological format posed an unusual mental challenge.

In the post-match press conference, Woods acknowledged the difficulty he had as a result of the format, saying, "It's just a different rhythm. It's like when you play Ryder Cup or Presidents Cups, and you play in foursomes."

While addressing the media, the 15-time major champion described how the digital league affects participants both physically and mentally, noting that the time gaps between shots are noticeable. He remarked that in some instances, participants have to wait for more than ten holes to be called on to make an important three-footer.

Woods acknowledged that the long breaks between shots made it challenging to sustain his touch. He admitted that while younger teammates adjusted effortlessly, the format felt completely new to him.

Woods' challenge was heightened by the absence of teammate Akshay Bhatia, who was participating in a Hero-sponsored event. Jupiter Links ultimately placed second, losing to the Los Angeles GC side.

Tiger's Drive for Speed and the Road to Augusta

Woods displayed significant physical ability, especially with his driver speed, which was over 175 miles per hour. "Yeah, there's definitely more. I've never really struggled with ball speed. Ball direction is a different story," Woods said in terms of his current power.

He mentioned that, even though he averaged 296 yards in 1997, the current era of the game favors breakneck speed. He mentioned that today's pros are achieving his monumental driving distances by using 3-woods rather than drivers.

Regarding future participation in The Masters, Woods is once again not making firm statements, adding that he will practice at home this week. Woods said, "As I said, I've been trying. Just this body, it doesn't recover like it did when it was 24, 25. It doesn't mean I'm not trying."

The veteran's recovery is a serious obstacle as he continues to deal with the effects of multiple prior injuries. Regardless of whether he can play, he has committed to attending the Champions Dinner and continuing his work in the Augusta community through his foundation.

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Written by

Abhishek Sharma

Edited by

Sagnik Bagchi