Tiger Woods has returned to Royal Troon, the venue for this week’s Open Championship, for the first time in 20 years. Woods was injured in 2016 and missed that event, but finished T-9 back in 2004 when Todd Hamilton won at the seaside links.
Woods’ wedges were caught on camera they were so covered in rust that it appeared they might have been in his bag back in 2004, too. Tiger, like many tour pros, opts to use wedges that are made completely with raw steel.
While it’s unclear whether the wedges Tiger is using at Royal Troon are prototypes or not, marking on the hosel clearly show they were manufacturerd for him about within the last few months. Given the level of rust, if they were wrapped up and sealed, it wasn’t for very long because the salt air of Woods’s home state of Florida has done a number on them.
If anything, the layer of rust covering Woods’ wedges confirms he doesn’t mind the worn look. He prefers it.
After playing 18 holes on Sunday, Woods got another look Troon’s back nine alongside good friends Justin Thomas and Max Homa. He was spotted moving with a slightly awkward gait and looking stiff as he bent over to tie his shoelace.
Woods also appeared to be consciously avoiding the bunkers when it came to getting in practice shots.There were glimpses of Woods’ greatness sprinkled across the nine holes, but what was more apparent were the physical challenges and the inescapable reality of sport.
All good things come to an end, and if this is not Woods’ final Open, the next one probably will be.
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