Tiger Woods withdrew from the Genesis Invitational this week following the death of his mother and it’s clear the decision weighed on him.
In addition to hosting the Genesis — and the importance of this year’s tournament helping raise LA wildfire relief funds — Woods was hoping to make his 2025 PGA debut at Torrey Pines in honor of his mother.
Instead it was just too soon and it’s hard to fault Woods.
Yet the Genesis did find a way to make sure Kultida Woods is honored on the course, paying respect to her buddhist heritage in the process.
A simple white flag pin adorns the green on the seventh hole of the South Course this week and the significance behind it is quite beautiful.
In a tribute to @TigerWoods‘ late mother Tida, the 7th hole @TheGenesisInv will feature an all white flag.
A native of Thailand, Tida was a faithful Buddhist, and the No. 7 and color white are significant in Buddhism and will be displayed in her honor. pic.twitter.com/oj9Oh2rrcU
— PGA TOUR (@PGATOUR) February 13, 2025
Per the PGA:
In remembrance of Tiger Woods’ late mother, Kultida, who passed away last week, the seventh hole pin flag on the Torrey Pines South Course will be replaced with a white flag during the four rounds of competition at The Genesis Invitational. The flag will have no logos or numbers.
The gesture is meant to honor Kultida Woods’ heritage. White symbolizes purity, wisdom and longevity in Buddhism. The number seven is also integral in Buddhist culture, tied to seven factors of enlightenment.
Absolutely perfect.
Don’t be surprised if we see some players wearing red on Sunday in her honor as well.
