It’s been a long time since Tiger Woods last played in the U.S. Open, and 19 years since he finished second to Michael Campbell, who won by a wide margin at Pinehurst No. 2 Golf Course.
So to get reacquainted with the course and better prepare for golf’s toughest test, Woods will have a “new coach” with him at Pinehurst this week.
That’s his 15-year-old son, Charlie.
“I think it’s pretty special having Charlie here, and just extending that father-son relationship that we have into this part of both of our lives, with him playing a lot of junior golf and me still playing here,” Woods said Tuesday.
“I leave my swing and my game to him. He’s seen me more than anybody in the world. He’s seen me hit the golf ball more than anybody. I tell him what to look out for, especially with putting. He gave me some little tips today, which was great because I get so wrapped up in hitting certain putts on certain pins that I forget I’m even practicing.”
“I just want to see things go well. He reminds me from time to time, which is great. We have such a great relationship and trust and it’s a great experience for both of us.”
The greens have been the biggest talking point at Pinehurst No. 2 Golf Club this week, so Woods took his time to make sure he was hitting the right speed.
The “turtleback” shape of these putting surfaces reduces the actual size of the green and causes the golf ball to bounce under the surface, forcing players to take chip shots from dangerous positions and forcing decisions as to whether to putt from off the green or to chip and, if so, which club to use – a wedge, 3-wood or 4-iron.
“There are a few places to make putts and a few places to use 56 and 60 shots. [degree wedge]” said Woods.
“I’ve used up to a 4-iron for bump-and-running and I’ve tried some woods too and I just didn’t like the way it responded. But some areas are rougher than others. For me specifically, the vibration you feel going up a hill and how fast you go from going up the hill to going over the next ridge, I think that’s one thing you have to be careful of.”
If Woods and all the other competitors don’t execute their speed correctly, big numbers are looming, and it only takes one hole to ruin a championship — just ask Nelly Korda about the 12th hole at Lancaster Country Club.
“There’s a lot of variety in shot options and grain is going to play a big role,” Woods further explained.
“In practice rounds the last few days, myself and other guys I’ve played with have missed the green a lot. It depends on how tough the USGA wants to make it and how close they want us to that side, but you’re going to see some guys play like ping pong, like in 2005. It’s something that can happen.”
Hopefully, for Woods’ sake, he won’t be playing any table tennis matches this week, but whatever the outcome, his son Charlie will be there to help him through this unique situation.
Jack Mirko is a golf staff writer for SB Nation Playing Through. Follow For more golf articles, follow us on Twitter Jack Mirko In the same way.
