In just a short period, Tiger Woods’ son, Charlie Woods, has made a strong presence in the golfing world with his improving performances. It includes a breakthrough win at the AJGA Team TaylorMade Invitational in May and a top-10 finish at the Junior PGA Championship.
With each tournament, expectations around Jr. Woods continue to grow, and he seems to know it.
According to the 16-year-old’s school coach, Toby Harbeck, Charlie has embraced the pressure and transformed himself, physically and mentally, to take on a leadership role.
ORLANDO, FLORIDA – DECEMBER 22: Tiger Woods of the United States and his son Charlie Woods react on the 16th green during the second round of the PNC Championship at Ritz-Carlton Golf Club on December…
ORLANDO, FLORIDA – DECEMBER 22: Tiger Woods of the United States and his son Charlie Woods react on the 16th green during the second round of the PNC Championship at Ritz-Carlton Golf Club on December 22, 2024 in Orlando, Florida. (Photo by Douglas P. DeFelice/Getty Images)
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“Charlie knows a lot of the attention is going to be on him, and he knows not to put himself in an uncomfortable position, but his teammates are protective of him,” Harbeck told The Palm Beach Post, as quoted.
Harbeck also revealed Charlie’s notable body transformation, stating, “Charlie has come a long way in two years. He’s lost 10 pounds and is ready to take on that No. 1 role.”
The coach, who previously worked with Jack Nicklaus’ sons Gary and Michael, noted the quiet support Charlie receives from his parents.
Elin and Woods are frequently present at matches, and Harbeck described Tiger’s demeanor off-camera as strikingly different.
“When Tiger and Elin show up to watch, Tiger is a different person than what you see on TV. Just like Jack (Nicklaus) was,” he revealed during the same conversation.
That family presence, combined with Charlie’s internal drive, has helped him bounce back from setbacks. After missing the cut at the U.S. Junior Amateur in July, he responded with poise at the Junior PGA Championship in West Lafayette.
Wearing his father’s signature Sunday red, Charlie carded a 9-under 276 to tie for ninth overall. His third-round 66 briefly put him in contention, showcasing the grit that’s becoming his trademark.
Behind the scenes, Charlie’s commitment is just as strong. Harbeck emphasized the hours spent in the gym, the refinement of his swing, and the discipline he’s building to lead both on and off the course.
“He’s not just showing up and swinging. He’s preparing like a pro,” the coach added.
That preparation will be tested again soon. Charlie is set to compete in the Junior Players Championship in late August at TPC Sawgrass, an event won by the 15-time major winner twice.
The event features the top 58 boys in the Rolex AJGA Rankings, along with select international invitees. Ranked No. 13, the AJGA winner enters as one of the headliners.
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