Share

Woods blames irons not nerves for runner-up finish

Cape Town - Tiger Woods' comeback continued as he fought hard but could only finish tied for second at the Valspar Championship - the 79-time PGA Tour champion pointed to his inaccurate iron-play rather than his temperament to explain why he never lifted the trophy.

It's hard not to feel like the old Tiger is back. Massive galleries, fearless putts, low stingers, fist-pumps and composure under pressure.

The only thing missing at the end of another brilliant weekend of golf from the master was a trophy.

There are many ways to assess Woods' closing round of 70 which contained just two birdies and one dropped shot and left him a single stroke behind eventual winner Paul Casey.

If you're looking at the glass being half-empty, then it's worrying that Woods got into contention and never closed it out.

If you're looking at the glass being half-full, then it's mightily encouraging that Woods said he felt completely at ease chasing the leaders but was simply let-down by inaccurate approach shots.

"I felt very comfortable, actually. I've been here before a few times," the 42-year-old said when asked if he had felt any nerves.

"Unfortunately, I just didn't quite feel as sharp as I needed to with my irons and played a little conservative because of it.

"I believe my game is progressing."

Woods will play in this week's Arnold Palmer Invitational as he continues to prepare for the Masters in early April. 

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Voting Booth
Should Siya Kolisi keep the captaincy as the Springboks build towards their World Cup title defence in 2027?
Please select an option Oops! Something went wrong, please try again later.
Results
Yes! Siya will only be 36 at the next World Cup. He can make it!
25% - 1273 votes
No! I think the smart thing to do is start again with a younger skipper ...
29% - 1472 votes
I'd keep Siya captain for now, but look to have someone else for 2027.
45% - 2251 votes
Vote
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE