Rory McIlroy talks about his relationship with Tiger Woods ahead of Genesis Open
McIlroy speaks about the barriers Woods was able to break down in golf and how he is still an inspiration to him and many others.
Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy
Tiger Woods has had an enormous influence on the game of golf. With his emergence in the late 1990s and early 2000s, the sport experienced a significant shift in popularity, and his sustained achievements have firmly established him as a golfing icon.
As Tiger Woods readies himself for his comeback to the golfing circuit following a long hiatus, his friend and fellow golfer Rory McIlroy has shared some insights into their relationship and the profound impact Woods has had on the sport.
As Woods prepares to make his comeback, fans and fellow players eagerly anticipate his return to the course. While there may never be another Tiger, his impact on the sport will be felt for generations.
Related: Rory McIlroy reveals the fierce battle for golf’s top spot
Rory McIlroy speaks about his admiration for Woods and his contribution to the sport of golf
In Netflix’s new Full Swing documentary, McIlroy praised Woods for taking golf to a “new level” and hailed him as his “hero.” He explained that as a young boy, he was “obsessed” with golf and would stay up late to watch Woods play on Sunday nights. He described Woods as an inspiration and a role model, saying he wanted to be like him when he grew up.
McIlroy described himself as feeling “fortunate” for their relationship, and he noted that Woods has set a great example for many people in the sport. “He’s one of the legends of the game,” McIlroy said. “There’ll never be another Tiger for so many reasons. Not just his success on the golf course, but the barriers he was able to break down.”
Since his car crash earlier this year, Tiger Woods has not participated in a non-major PGA Tour event. However, the five-time Masters champion remains determined to compete and win the Genesis Invitational, which commences on Thursday, despite concerns over his fitness.
“The past year since, if you go back to this week at Genesis last year to where it’s at now, we all have to say it’s been very turbulent,” said Woods. “We never would have expected the game of golf to be in this situation, but it is, that’s the reality, and I was alluding to trying to create the best product.”
While recognizing the challenges facing the sport in the current climate, Woods expressed confidence that golf would continue to thrive. He commended McIlroy for being exceptional in the face of adversity and acknowledged his unwavering dedication to the game. “To be able to go through all that, I’ve been with him on all those conference calls and side meetings, and for him to go out there and play and win, it’s been incredible,” Woods said.
In case you missed it:
Siddid Dey Purkayastha
(528 Articles Published)