Torrey Pines last year gave us one of the truly fantastic images that will forever be etched in my brain (pictured above). It is akin to Muhammad Ali standing over Sonny Liston. It is similar to Gibson’s home run. It is no less amazing that Bobby Orr soaring through the air after his most famous goal.
It has now been 1 year since Tiger’s incredible come from behind victory at the 2008 US Open. Some people have called this Tiger’s greatest triumph to date. Although I can’t say I am qualified to deem that statement true or not; his performance last year holds a special place for me.
This was the performance that made me realize how special of an athlete I was watching. I know it might have been a realization that others had years ago, but this show put Tiger over the top for me.
Woods had to endure a brutal knee injury to force an 18-hole playoff with Rocco Mediate at Torrey Pines. In total it took 91 grueling holes, but that Monday he clinched his 14th major.
The build up to this year’s Open is unparalleled. If Tiger and Phil are playing meaningful golf on Sunday, this has the potential to be one of the biggest moments in years. There is not shortage of drama for this one.
Can Tiger repeat with a consecutive US Open victory? Can Tiger repeat with another Bethpage Black victory (he won the Open their in ’02)? How will Phil perform under so much pressure? If all the golfers do it, will Tiger wear a pink ribbon for Amy Mickelson?
Here is the best layout of the TV coverage for later this week and into the weekend. Coverage starts on ESPN and then moves to NBC.
Tiger Woods US Open 18th Hole Putt [YouTube]
2008 U.S Open Tiger Highlights [YouTube]
