Tiger Woods has won a fifth Green Jacket at Augusta National. His first major win in 11 years and a first since having four operations on his back.
Woods says his Masters triumph is right up there with his greatest achievements, having faced doubts he would ever contend again. He said he could barely walk before surgery and his children had seen golf cause pain.
“We’re creating new memories for them and it’s just very special. I was very lucky to be given another chance to do something that I love to do. I had serious doubts after what transpired a couple of years ago. I couldn’t lay down, I couldn’t do much of anything. I had the procedure which gave me a chance of having a normal life. All of a sudden I realised I could swing a club again. I felt if I could somehow piece this together I still had the hands to do it. The body is not the same but I still had good hands.To have the opportunity to come back like this, you know it’s probably one of the biggest wins I’ve ever had for sure. It’s got to be right up there, with all the things I’ve battled through.”
At 43, Woods became the second oldest winner of the Masters. Behind Jack Nicklaus, who won in 1986 at age 46 and who holds the record (18) for victories in major tournaments. Woods’ victory immediately reverberated beyond golf and all sports.
The win even led to a rare moment of agreement between President Donald Trump and former President Barack Obama.
“What a fantastic life comeback for a really great guy!’’ -Trump.“To come back and win the Masters after all the highs and lows is a testament to excellence, grit and determination.’’ -Obama.