Tiger Woods’ mother, Kultida, has sadly passed away at the age of 80, with the golf icon sharing an emotional statement in which he described her as his ‘biggest fan’
Golfing legend Tiger Woods sadly announced the death of his mother on Tuesday. It comes after the 15-time major winner shared some touching moments with her during his first two TGL appearances.
After sinking a putt on the fifth hole for his team, Jupiter Links GC, who were up against Los Angeles Golf Club on Jan. 14, cameras caught Kultida Woods, Tiger’s mum, cheering from the crowd.
Despite losing their opening match 12-1, Woods and his team were eager to make a comeback when they faced Rory McIlroy and Boston Common Golf on Jan. 27. “Hey Mom,” Woods called out to Kultida in the crowd, “Not gonna suck tonight, OK? ” A beaming Woods later referred to his mother as his ‘biggest fan’ in a heartfelt statement.
“It is with heartfelt sadness that I want to share that my dear mother, Kultida Woods, passed away early this morning,” Woods revealed on Tuesday in a statement posted on social media.
“My Mom was a force of nature all her own, her spirit was simply undeniable. She was quick with the needle and a laugh. She was my biggest fan, greatest supporter, without her none of my personal achievements would have been possible. She was loved by so many, but especially by her two grandchildren, Sam and Charlie. Thank you all for your support, prayers and privacy at this difficult time for me and my family. Love you Mom.”
TGL, the brainchild of golfing greats Woods and McIlroy, offered its heartfelt thoughts amidst a difficult time, stating: “Our thoughts are with the Woods family. We extend our deepest condolences.” The United States Golf Association (USGA) joined in the outpouring of support, saying: “We’re so sorry for your loss, Tiger.”
The sentiment was echoed after the USGA presented Woods with the prestigious 2024 Bob Jones Award on June 11, 2024. This accolade recognises not only his incredible record as a 15-time major champion and nine-time USGA champion but also his personal qualities.
Kultida Woods has always been by her son’s side ( Image: Jamie Squire/Getty Images)
In his speech, Woods shone a light on the pivotal role his mother Kultida played in both his life and career: “My mom doesn’t get enough credit,” he acknowledged. “Everyone thought it was my dad when I went on the road, which it was, but Mom was at home. If you don’t know, Mom has been there my entire life. She’s always been there through thick and thin.”
“She has allowed me to get here. She allowed me to do these things, chase my dreams, and the support and love – I didn’t do this alone. I had the greatest rock that any child could possibly have: my mom. Thank you, Mommy.”
With the Genesis Invitational looming on Feb. 13, which Woods is expected to host, his participation remains uncertain as he grapples with his mother’s recent passing. He expressed gratitude for the outpouring of sympathy, asking for continued privacy: “Thank you all for your support, prayers and privacy at this difficult time for me and my family,” per NBC.
