Five-time Masters winner Tiger Woods has made his first public appearance since the death of his mother as he turned up at the Genesis Invitational on Sunday alongside Kai Trump
Tiger Woods and Kai Trump turned up to Torrey Pines on Sunday(Image: Getty Images)
Tiger Woods graced the Genesis Invitational on Sunday, his first public outing since the passing of his mother.
Woods withdrew from the PGA Tour tournament at Torrey Pines following the death of his mom Kultida, who was 80. Despite his sorrow, the golf icon – and the event’s host – showed commendable fortitude by attending the final round of the California event this week.
The 49-year-old made an entrance at Torrey Pines accompanied by Kai Trump, the 17 year old granddaughter of former President Donald Trump, who is carving out her own path in golf and has struck a deal with TaylorMade.
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Woods was sporting his ‘Sunday Red’ attire, a brand he introduced last year post-Nike partnership. He joined forces with TaylorMade – the same company sponsoring young Kai – to launch the label.
PGA Tour stars were there to greet Woods, including Tony Finau, as he arrived for the final round. Many, like Scottie Scheffler and Rory McIlroy, honored Kultida by donning red pins inscribed with “For Tida” – which was her nickname.
Kultida was instrumental in sculpting her son’s legendary career, witnessing him triumph as an 82-time PGA Tour winner and conquer 15 major championships. Tied with the record set by Sam Snead, no golfer has amassed more PGA Tour wins, and only Jack Nicklaus surpasses him with 18 major victories.
Woods decided against playing in this week’s PGA Tour event(Image: Getty Images)
“It is with heartfelt sadness that I want to share that my dear mother, Kultida Woods, passed away early this morning,” Woods said earlier this month. “My Mom was a force of nature all her own, her spirit was simply undeniable. She was quick with the needle and a laugh.
“She was my biggest fan, greatest supporter, without her none of my personal achievements would have been possible. She was loved by so many, but especially by her two grandchildren, Sam and Charlie. Thank you all for your support, prayers and privacy at this difficult time for me and my family. Love you, Mom.”
The golf world pays tribute to Kultida Woods
President Trump said on his Truth Social platform: “I was just informed that Tiger Woods’ wonderful Mother, Kultida, passed away – She has gone onto greener fairways! Kultida Woods was an amazing influence on Tiger, and gave him much of his strength and brilliance. Melania and I send our love and prayers to Tiger and his incredible family!”
The PGA Tour’s commissioner Jay Monahan added: “The PGA Tourfamily is saddened by the passing of Kultida Woods. Those of us who have been lucky enough to have a firsthand view of Tiger Woods’ career know how much both his greatness and his humanity have stemmed from the love and support of his mother.
Tony Finau was among those to greet Woods(Image: Getty Images)
“We will cherish our memories of her and our thoughts are with Tiger, his children Sam and Charlie, and their entire family as they mourn her loss.”
Woods had his sights set on competing at Torrey Pines but pulled out of the event last Monday. He explained: “I planned to tee it up this week, but I’m just not ready. I did my best to prepare, knowing it’s what my Mom would have wanted, but I’m still processing her loss.
“Thanks to everyone who has reached out. I hope to be at Torrey later in the week and appreciate the continued kindness since my Mom’s passing.”
