I’m rooting for second chances, second acts, second winds. And so on Sunday, I’ll be rooting for Tiger Woods.
I’m rooting for redemption, perseverance, humility. And so on Sunday, I’ll be rooting for Tiger Woods.
He will head into the final round of the Tour Championship Sunday
looking for his first victory in five years with a 3-shot lead and armed with the megawatt smile, fist pump and Houdini-like ability to deliver improbable shots in the clutch.
But that’s not why I’ll be rooting for him.
In 2009, outside his home in Florida, Woods crashed a Cadillac Escalade into a fire hydrant and tree. Then his life crashed. After details of marital infidelities emerged, Woods’ wife left him and much of America turned its back on him.
I’m rooting for Woods because he got help.
He went to rehab for sex addiction and, as a single father of two young children, began living scandal free. Then last year Woods was arrested for DUI and acknowledged having taken multiple pain medications before he got behind the wheel. About two months later, Woods said he completed a private intensive program and has avoided any public trouble since.
I’m rooting because he didn’t quit.
Once Woods even wondered if he’d ever be able to play competitive golf again, much less win a tournament. But even after four back surgeries, here he is.
I’m rooting because he’s evolved.
At 42, Woods is hungry to win again — maybe still wonders if with 14 major championships there’s time to catch Jack Nicklaus’ record of 18 majors. But Woods no longer seems obsessed by it.
He smiles more. Seems to be enjoying himself more. Expresses gratitude simply for being able to play the game he loves.
Victory on Sunday would help validate Woods’ remarkable road back.
I’m rooting for that.
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