Golf legend Tiger Woods is grieving a heartbreaking loss. He recently shared a deeply emotional message on social media, announcing the passing of someone very special to him.
Tiger revealed on X that his mother, Kultida Woods, passed away on February 4. He described her as a strong and supportive woman who played a huge role in his success.
“My Mom was a force of nature all her own, her spirit was simply undeniable,” Tiger wrote. “She was my biggest fan, greatest supporter. Without her, none of my achievements would have been possible.”
Kultida, originally from Thailand, was always by Tiger’s side throughout his legendary career. Just weeks before her passing, she attended his TMRW Golf League (TGL) debut, showing her unwavering support as always.
Her strength and kindness left a lasting impact on those who knew her, including many in the golf community. Fred Couples, a fellow golf legend, paid tribute to Kultida on X, remembering her as a lively and warm presence.
Beyond her emotional support, Kultida influenced even the smallest details of Tiger’s career—including a tradition that became his signature: wearing red on Sundays.
“My mom thought that, since I was born a Capricorn, red was my power color,” Tiger once shared. “So in some junior golf events, I wore red—and I won.”
To test the theory, Tiger switched to blue for some tournaments but noticed he wasn’t winning as much.
“I didn’t win,” he admitted. “So I switched back to red, and I had more success.”
After that, Tiger and his mom agreed that he would wear red only on the final day of big events. That tradition became one of the most iconic in golf history.
Now, as he mourns this deep loss, Tiger carries on the lessons and values his mother instilled in him—strength, determination, and belief in oneself.
In his tribute on X, Tiger also reflected on the love Kultida had for her grandchildren, Sam and Charlie, and expressed gratitude for all the support he’s received during this difficult time.
Just a few months ago, on December 21, 2024, Tiger was seen playing golf with his kids at the Ritz-Carlton Golf Club in Orlando. Fans were excited to see his daughter Sam, noticing how much she resembles her mother, Elin Nordegren.
Many fans commented on the resemblance, with one saying, “She looks just like her mom. Beautiful like her mama.” Another fan added, “Such cute kids! They look like their mother.”
While some thought Sam looked like her mom, others believed she had more of Tiger’s features. Meanwhile, others admired Charlie’s impressive golf skills.
Tiger shares Sam and Charlie with his ex-wife Elin Nordegren, whom he married in 2004 and divorced in 2010. Sam was born in 2007, and Charlie in 2009.
Though Charlie enjoys golf, Sam has chosen a different path. Tiger once shared that she has a “negative connotation” towards the sport because it often took him away during her childhood.
At the height of his career, Tiger traveled frequently, leaving Sam behind. However, over the years, they built a strong bond through shared interests outside of golf. Meanwhile, Tiger and Charlie continue to enjoy spending time together on the course.
On December 23, 2024, during the PNC Championship, Charlie made headlines by achieving his first-ever hole-in-one at the Ritz-Carlton Golf Club in Florida. Using a 7-iron, he sent the ball flying on a par-3 hole—and it landed perfectly.
The crowd erupted in cheers as the ball rolled into the cup. Charlie raised his hand in surprise, a big smile spreading across his face. He then turned to Tiger, and they shared a heartfelt hug in their matching red shirts and black pants—a nod to Tiger’s famous tradition.
Tiger was overwhelmed with pride. “Yeah!” he exclaimed, playfully pushing Charlie in celebration.
After the game, Charlie shared his excitement, saying, “It was awesome. No one made a mistake today, so that was some of the most fun I’ve ever had. On top of that, I made an ace. I don’t think I can top that.”
For Tiger, the moment was just as special as any in his storied career. “That’s one of the highlights we’ve ever had,” he said.
Reflecting on Charlie’s growth in golf, Tiger added, “First, he made his first eagle. Now, he just made his first hole-in-one. It’s a magical moment. I’m just so happy for him.”
Although Tiger admits he’s no longer in peak physical condition for competitive play, he values the time spent with Charlie on the course. He explained that the best part of the PNC Championship was playing with his son and sharing these unforgettable memories.
Team Woods finished second in the tournament, narrowly missing the win to Team Langer. However, Bernhard Langer, the winner, praised Tiger and Charlie, saying, “I’m convinced they are going to win this in the next few years. They are just too good.”
Despite being the son of a golf legend, Charlie faces high expectations. However, Tiger wants him to find his own path.
“Charlie is Charlie. Yes, he’s my son, but I just want him to be himself,” Tiger said. “That’s what we always focus on—encouraging him to create his own journey.”
Tiger also acknowledged how tough it is for Charlie to grow up in the social media age, where everything is recorded. “I try my best as a parent. I’m always here for him,” he said.
Charlie’s hole-in-one was not only a remarkable moment in his golf career but also a special bonding experience with his dad. As he continues to grow, Tiger remains his biggest supporter—just as Kultida once was for him.
