In a press conference before the Open Championship, Tiger Woods, a 15-time major champion, expressed excitement about the upcoming challenge at Royal Troon. Despite his age of 48, Woods dismissed any suggestions of retirement and emphasized his focus on adding to his major tally.
When asked about his preparation for the tournament, Woods mentioned that he has been training rigorously in the gym, resulting in improvements in his physical condition and his game. While he acknowledged limitations in his practice sessions, he highlighted the progress he has made in recent weeks.
Regarding comments made by Colin Montgomerie suggesting retirement, Woods asserted that as a past champion, he has the right to make decisions about his future in the game. He emphasized that he will continue to play as long as he believes he can compete and win.
Speaking about the unique challenges of playing golf in Scotland and on links courses like Troon, Woods noted the differences in playing conditions, emphasizing the importance of using the ground strategically and avoiding penalty areas like pot bunkers.
Addressing his short game and putting, Woods acknowledged the need to refine his skills on the firm, fast greens at Troon. He expressed a desire to practice chipping around the fescue to prepare for the tournament.
When discussing specific holes at Troon, Woods mentioned the varying difficulty of the course, with certain holes presenting opportunities for aggressive play while others require caution. He highlighted the iconic Postage Stamp 8th hole as a straightforward yet challenging test for players.
In considering the style of links golf and its potential benefits for his game, Woods appreciated the emphasis on running the ball along the ground, which might suit his playing style as he gets older. He noted that the nature of links golf offers opportunities for strategic play without relying solely on distance.
Reflecting on his past experiences at Troon, Woods expressed his fondness for the venue and the unique challenges it presents. He recalled playing with Tom Weiskopf in previous practice rounds and enjoying the camaraderie and competition on the course.
Overall, Woods appeared confident and eager to tackle the challenges of the Open Championship at Royal Troon, emphasizing his commitment to continue competing at the highest level.
