The Loop
Tiger Woods conducts clinic at junior golf tournament, hits 300-yard drives
The latest Tiger Woods comeback picked up more steam on Thursday with the 14-time major champion showing up at a junior golf tournament -- with his clubs.
Woods, who is recovering from two off-season back surgeries, conducted a clinic at the Junior Invitational. And his appearance sent social media into a tizzy.
Woods, who reportedly has stepped up his practice schedule of late, did more than hit soft wedges, though. How about a stinger?
And yes, he hit driver. Long drivers, according to those there:
Here's another video. No holding back here:
This is the second straight year the junior tournament, which is sponsored by Nike, has drawn attention for an appearance by a star wearing the swoosh. You might remember last year it was Rory McIlroy doing a clinic – and getting beaten in an arm wrestling match by junior golfer Brad Dalke.
Woods’ surprise (at least, to most) appearance happens to come on the same day Wright Thompson’s fascinating piece for ESPN on the fading superstar was published. Among revelations about Woods’ relationship with his late father, his relationships with his former mistresses, and new details of his intense training with Navy Seals was this quote from Michael Jordan.
"The thing is," Jordan says, "I love him so much that I can't tell him, 'You're not gonna be great again.'"
Woods has given no timetable for his return to competitive golf, but his agent, Mark Steinberg, recently said he "absolutely" expects his client to play this year. How good Woods will be when he does come back remains to be seen, but Thursday's appearance indicates he's at least getting closer to giving another run at greatness a shot.