I followed Tiger Woods around Augusta National – here’s my Masters prediction

Follow Tiger Woods to Augusta National – Here are my master’s predictions

Despite his recent challenges, Woods’ ability to inspire admiration remains largely intact, even though the youthful glow has disappeared from his face.

AUGUSTA NATIONAL — Before the early afternoon sun faded, the course was shrouded in the shadows of Tiger and Woods, obscuring the presence of other golfers on the course. Even his play partner, Will Zalatoris, was nothing more than a ghost to observers, here and there. Woods and Zalatoris were the first to take the field, starting at 8:35 a.m. on the 10th. Spectators were already in place, lining the fairways and filling the stands around Amen Corner (holes 11, 12, and 13). Woods’ early morning appearance was a treat for those lucky enough to vote for the annual ticket on Monday.

There are few rites of passage in sports as blissful as the morning of the first day of the Masters. Augusta National always evokes images of an inaccessible Arcadia for most people. Experiencing this in any form is an assault on the senses. It felt like a privilege to do it on a dappled morning in the gentle warmth of the sun, in front of some of the world’s best golfers.

Woods’ ability to impress audiences shows no signs of slowing down. The signs of aging are becoming increasingly evident in the way he walks, moving on his feet like a different person. He looks small and his face has completely lost its magnificent youthful glow. His tee shot on No. 14 was 30 yards from the hit by Zalatoris, who was born the year before Woods won his first Masters in 1997. His first tee shot remains. Second he sprayed directly.

This will be his second tournament of the year, the first coming two months earlier at the Genesis Invitational, where his 2021 career was nearly ended by a car accident. However, the race ended early due to withdrawal due to influenza. While there are encouraging rumors in the Jupiter golf world about Woods’ ball-striking, Florida has few hills to talk about.

At Augusta, the ground drops 150 feet from the highest point on the 10th tee to the lowest point on the 12th green. Virtually no portion of the course is downhill, and you must traverse nearly every foot of downhill on your way back to the 18th green, which is located directly below the 10th tee.

Last year, severe weather conditions took a toll on his atrophied right leg, forcing him to retire in the third round. At least he did it. With the exception of Thursday, when storms are expected, this year’s weather forecast is more optimistic, and Woods knows how to navigate the area even if he gets sick. In fact, Zalatoris spoke enthusiastically about Woods’ prospects. “He played very well today. I overtook it several times and could hear it screaming. So, you know, he looks great. He moves as best he can. Again, considering what he’s been through, it’s amazing how well he does it.