1. The 1997 Masters – The Start of the Tiger Era
In 1997, at the age of 21, Tiger Woods stunned the world with his historic victory at the Masters Tournament.
Woods’ performance at Augusta National was nothing short of extraordinary.
He broke multiple records, including the youngest player to win the Masters and the largest margin of victory in Masters history – a 12-shot triumph. Finishing at 18-under-par 270, Woods became the first African-American to win the prestigious event.
This victory marked the beginning of the Tiger Era in golf, setting the stage for his dominance in the sport over the next decade.
The significance of Woods’ 1997 Masters victory cannot be overstated.
It shattered barriers in the predominantly white world of golf and inspired a new generation of diverse golfers. Additionally, the impressive win brought increased attention and interest in the sport, leading to significant growth in participation and viewership.
After this day in early April of 1997, golf would never be the same.
Related: 19 Facts About the Masters That You Probably Didn’t Know
2. The 2000 U.S. Open – The Record-Breaking Win
The 2000 U.S. Open, held at Pebble Beach, saw Tiger Woods deliver the most dominant performance in the history of professional golf.
He won the tournament by a staggering 15 strokes, setting a new U.S. Open record for the largest margin of victory. Woods, with a score of -12 for the tournament, was the only player to finish under par. The next closest competitor? Ernie Els at 3 over par.
This was also the start of the greatest run in golf history- Tiger would go on to win the next three consecutive majors and complete the non-calendar year Grand Slam, or Tiger Slam as it would forever be known as.
3. The 2000 British Open – The Career Grand Slam
At just 24 years old, Tiger Woods completed the career Grand Slam by winning the 2000 British Open at St. Andrews.
He became the youngest golfer in history to achieve this feat, joining the ranks of legends like Jack Nicklaus, Gary Player, Ben Hogan, and Gene Sarazen. Woods finished the tournament at 19-under-par 269, setting a new British Open record and securing an eight-shot victory.
Woods’ accomplishment at St. Andrews was a testament to his extraordinary talent and versatility as a golfer.
The career Grand Slam requires a player to win each of the four major championships – the Masters, U.S. Open, British Open, and PGA Championship – and Woods achieved this remarkable feat in just four years as a professional golfer.
Related: The Grand Slam In Golf: A Closer Look At Golf’s Ultimate Achievement
4. The 2000 PGA Championship – The Dramatic Playoff
The 2000 PGA Championship at Valhalla Golf Club featured one of the most thrilling finishes in major championship history.
Tiger Woods and Bob May battled in a head-to-head duel throughout the final round, with both players finishing the tournament at 18-under-par 270. This set the stage for a dramatic three-hole aggregate playoff, which Woods ultimately won by one stroke.
Woods’ victory at the 2000 PGA Championship demonstrated his ability to thrive in high-pressure situations and showcased his mental toughness. It also marked his third consecutive major championship victory, setting him up for the possibility of completing the “Tiger Slam” the following year.
5. The 2001 Masters – The Tiger Slam
In 2001, Tiger Woods achieved something no golfer had ever accomplished before, and hasn’t since: holding all four major championship titles simultaneously.
By winning the Masters, Woods completed the “Tiger Slam,” a feat that many consider one of the most impressive achievements in the history of professional sports. He finished the tournament at 16-under-par 272, two strokes ahead of runner-up David Duval.
The 2001 Masters victory not only solidified Woods’ status as one of the greatest golfers of all time but also demonstrated his incredible consistency and dominance in major championships.
The “Tiger Slam” is a testament to Woods’ unparalleled skill, determination, and mental fortitude.
6. The 2005 Masters – The Iconic Chip Shot
The 2005 Masters Tournament featured one of the most memorable shots in golf history.
On the 16th hole during the final round, Woods faced a difficult chip shot from off the green. In an unbelievable display of skill and precision, he struck the ball perfectly, sending it rolling towards the hole before pausing briefly at the edge and finally dropping in for a birdie.
This iconic chip shot, which ultimately led to Woods’ fourth Masters victory, remains one of the most replayed and celebrated moments in golf history.
7. The 2006 British Open – The Emotional Win
Tiger Woods’ victory at the 2006 British Open at Royal Liverpool was particularly poignant, as it came just two months after the death of his father and lifelong mentor, Earl Woods.
The emotional win marked Woods’ third British Open title and his 11th major championship victory overall.
Throughout the tournament, Woods displayed exceptional control and focus, despite the emotional turmoil he was experiencing. His ability to overcome personal adversity and secure a major championship victory is a testament to the resilience and mental strength that he repeatedly displayed throughout his career.
8. The 2008 U.S. Open – The Gritty Playoff Win
The 2008 U.S. Open at Torrey Pines showcased Tiger Woods’ incomparable determination and competitive spirit.
Despite suffering from a severe knee injury and two stress fractures in his leg, Woods managed to force a playoff with Rocco Mediate by sinking a dramatic birdie putt on the 72nd hole of the tournament.
The following day, Woods and Mediate battled through an 18-hole playoff, which ultimately led to a sudden-death playoff hole. Woods secured his 14th major championship victory with a par on the first sudden-death hole, capping off one of the most impressive and gritty performances of his career.
9. The 2018 Tour Championship- The Comeback Victory
In 2018, Tiger Woods marked a triumphant return to golf with his first victory in five years at the Tour Championship.
The victory was a testament to Woods’ resilience and determination, as he overcame numerous obstacles to once again rise to the top of the golf world. Tiger’s impressive win at the East Lake Golf Club in Atlanta was not only a career milestone but also an emotional and inspiring moment for both him and his fans worldwide.
Leading up to this victory, Woods faced a series of setbacks that threatened to derail his legendary career.
He underwent four back surgeries, including a spinal fusion surgery, which put his ability to compete at the highest level in serious doubt. Additionally, Tiger dealt with injuries, personal scandals, and a highly-publicized arrest for driving under the influence in 2017.
Despite the odds stacked against him, Woods persevered and staged an incredible comeback.
His win at the 2018 Tour Championship signified a new chapter in his career and served as a powerful reminder of his unwavering spirit and the enduring impact of his presence on the golf course.
10. The 2019 Masters – Major Champion Once Again
Securing his fifth Masters title and his first major championship victory in 11 years, Woods finished the tournament at 13-under-par 275, one stroke ahead of the runners-up. His emotional victory at the 2019 Masters demonstrated his unwavering determination and resilience, inspiring millions of fans around the world.
Tiger Woods’ victory at the 2019 Masters marked one of the greatest comebacks in sports history. After a decade plagued by injuries, personal struggles, and a decline in form, Woods’ triumph at Augusta National signaled his return to the top of the golf world.
Tiger Woods’ illustrious career has been filled with countless memorable moments that have left an indelible mark on the world of golf. His unparalleled skill, determination, and ability to overcome adversity have solidified his place as the greatest golfer of all time.
We can only hope he has just a little more magic left.
Related: Masters Par 3 Contest: A Fun Prelude To The Main Event