Tiger Woods has been granted a special exemption into the 124th U.S. Open, which will be held from June 13-16 at Pinehurst No. 2. The USGA offered the exemption to the three-time U.S. Open champion, who last won the tournament in 2008 and was given this special exemption because his previous exemption from his 2019 Masters win had expired. This marks the first special exemption offered by the USGA since Phil Mickelson in 2021.
Woods expressed his excitement and gratitude for the opportunity to compete in this year’s U.S. Open, calling it a truly special event in his career. With nine total USGA titles, Woods is set to make his 23rd career appearance in the national championship. His last U.S. Open top-10 finish was in 2010 at Pebble Beach, where he tied for fourth place.
John Bodenhamer, the USGA Chief Championships Officer, acknowledged Woods’ significant contributions to the U.S. Open, from his dominating victory at Pebble Beach in 2000 to his inspiring win at Torrey Pines in 2008.
Bodenhamer stated that the championship is enriched when Woods is in the field, making the decision to grant him a special exemption an easy one for the committee.
Woods has been struggling with health issues but is determined to compete in this year’s U.S. Open.
The tournament is sure to be a spectacle as Tiger Woods returns to one of golf’s most prestigious events after years of rehabbing injuries and dealing with personal challenges.
Woods’ return will add another layer of excitement and intrigue to an already highly anticipated tournament.
This marks Tiger’s return to competitive golf after several years away due to injury and personal struggles.
Tiger’s presence on the course will undoubtedly draw attention and interest from fans around the world.