Tiger was finally out-Tigered
I SUPPOSE it had to happen some time didn’t it? Historically, when Tiger Woods is leading a Major after 54 holes there really is only one winner, but Korean YE Yang obviously hadn’t read the script.
Tiger actually played as well on the final round of the US PGA on Sunday as any of the previous three, but it was just one of those days with the putter for the world No1, who simply couldn’t hole anything. At the same time he’s watching his playing partner absolutely revelling in the battle and gaining confidence with every shot.
His chip-in eagle at 14 was exquisite in taking him into the lead and the Korean never looked back. With the rest of the field out of sight, Yang knew he had at least secured a runner-up spot and had nothing to lose. If anything, he out-Tigered Tiger down the stretch, rattling in a series of fantastic approach shots under pressure to turn the heat on the world No1. It was a fantastic victory for Yang and indeed the whole of Asia, which, let’s face it, was always going to celebrate a Major winner sooner rather than later judging by its conveyor belt of talented players.
While it’s a tournament the Asians will always remember, it was also a success story for the Europeans with eight players finishing tied 10th or better. It was another big week for Mr Consistency, Lee Westwood, who showed once again why he is considered among the best in the world at the moment with his second tied third finish in as many Majors.
Great also to see Rory McIlroy join him on three-under-par for his highest finish in the Major – there is plenty more of this lad to come, believe me.
It’s a big week for me also as I return to the Home of Golf, St Andrews, to play in the Scottish Senior Masters. Playing on the Torrance Course, which I designed, will be a tremendous boost and it will be great to mark the occasion with a victory which might just help me top the Order of Merit table.