Tiger Woods Speaks on Possible Final U.S. Open Outing

When the dust settles on the 2024 U.S. Open at Pinehurst, the golf world may have witnessed the end of an era for one of its most iconic figures. Tiger Woods, a three-time U.S. Open champion, has left fans pondering his future in the tournament. After missing the cut on Friday, Woods shared some poignant reflections that have sparked some widespread speculation.

The Press Conference That Stirred the Waters

During his post-cut press conference, Woods was candid about his performance and his future in competitive golf, particularly at the U.S. Open. 

"I've only got one more tournament this season, so I'm not going to -- I don't think even if I win the British Open I don't think I'll be in the Playoffs. Just one more event and then I'll come back whenever I come back." 

He then added a line that struck a chord with everyone listening when asked if this could have been his last U.S. Open: "As far as my last U.S. Open Championship, I don’t know when that is. It may or may not be."

Woods' history at the U.S. Open is nothing short of legendary. He will forever have victories in 2000, 2002, and 2008 to prove it. However, his rounds at Pinehurst No. 2 this week didn't reflect his former glory. Shooting a 74 on Thursday and following that up with a 73 on Friday, Woods finished 7-over for the tournament, missing the weekend by two strokes. 

Reflecting on a Storied Legacy

This isn’t the first setback of the season for Woods. A missed the cut at the PGA Championship last month as well as a WD at the Genisis due to a bout with the flu cut two other appearances this season short. He made history by making the cut at the 2024 Masters in April, however, that was the only time this season Woods has played on the weekend. These recent performances have certainly added quite a few layers to the speculation about his future in the sport.

Woods’ uncertainty about his return to the U.S. Open casts a shadow over his illustrious career, revealing the human side of a golfer who has, for decades, seemed larger than life. 

A Future Hanging in the Balance

The question of whether this was indeed his last U.S. Open appearance remains unanswered. What is certain, however, is the impact Woods has had on the game — an impact that will reverberate for generations to come, regardless of his decision. 

While these statements from Woods' followed a disappointing finish are a harsh reminder that the end of a storied career may be near, there are quite a few reasons to expect Woods to be back next season. It was reported just earlier this week that the PGA Tour Policy Board will soon be voting on a special exemption for Woods to play in future Signature Events without a sponsor exemption. That alone seems to signal that we may see plenty more of Tiger in the near future.