Former Caddie Claims Tiger Woods Skipping Major Tournaments Takes Away Much of Its Appeal and Excitement
Tiger Woods, one of golf’s most iconic figures, has been a transformative force in the sport, drawing massive crowds and global attention with his unparalleled skill and charisma. However, his absence from major tournaments in recent years has sparked discussions about the impact on the game’s allure. A former caddie, who worked closely with top-tier golfers, recently made headlines by claiming that Woods’ decision to skip major tournaments significantly diminishes their appeal and excitement. This perspective has ignited debates among fans, analysts, and players, shedding light on Woods’ enduring influence and the challenges facing professional golf.
The caddie, who chose to remain anonymous, argued that Woods’ presence on the course is a unique draw, unlike any other player in the modern era. His comments reflect a sentiment shared by many: Woods is not just a competitor but a phenomenon whose participation elevates the stakes and atmosphere of any event. Historically, Woods’ appearances have driven record-breaking viewership, with television ratings for majors often peaking when he is in contention. For instance, his 2019 Masters victory, a stunning comeback after years of personal and professional struggles, was watched by millions worldwide, reaffirming his ability to captivate audiences. The caddie’s claim suggests that without Woods, tournaments lose a layer of drama and anticipation that only he can bring.
Woods’ reduced schedule in recent years stems from a combination of factors, primarily his ongoing recovery from injuries. A catastrophic car accident in 2021 left him with severe leg injuries, limiting his ability to compete at the grueling level required for major championships. Since then, Woods has been selective, prioritizing events like the Masters and the PGA Championship while skipping others, such as the U.S. Open or The Open Championship, depending on his physical condition. His former caddie emphasized that this selective participation, while understandable, leaves a void. Fans who once flocked to see Woods chase records set by legends like Jack Nicklaus now face uncertainty about whether he will even tee off.
The broader context of golf also plays a role in this narrative. The sport has been grappling with its identity amid the rise of LIV Golf and the fragmentation of professional tours. Emerging stars like Scottie Scheffler, Rory McIlroy, and Jon Rahm have undeniable talent, but none have yet matched Woods’ global star power. The caddie pointed out that younger players, while skilled, lack the “larger-than-life” aura that Woods brings, which transcends golf and attracts casual viewers. This absence is particularly felt at majors, where the prestige of the event amplifies Woods’ impact. A tournament without him, the caddie argued, feels like a blockbuster movie missing its lead actor.
However, not everyone agrees with the caddie’s perspective. Some argue that golf’s appeal lies in its depth and the emergence of new talent. Players like Scheffler, who dominated in 2024, and McIlroy, with his consistent excellence, have kept majors competitive and engaging. Critics of the caddie’s view contend that focusing on Woods’ absence overlooks the sport’s evolution and the excitement generated by fresh rivalries. For example, the 2024 Masters saw thrilling performances from younger players, proving that golf can still captivate without Woods in the field. Additionally, advancements in media coverage and digital engagement have helped maintain interest, even in his absence.
Still, the caddie’s comments resonate because they highlight Woods’ singular role in golf’s history. His ability to draw diverse audiences—spanning generations and geographies—has been unmatched. Data from recent majors supports this: viewership for events Woods skipped, like the 2023 U.S. Open, was notably lower compared to those he played, such as the 2022 PGA Championship. Beyond numbers, Woods’ presence creates moments of high drama, from his fist pumps to improbable recoveries, that remain etched in fans’ memories. The caddie’s claim underscores a fear that without these moments, majors risk becoming less culturally significant.
As Woods approaches the twilight of his career, his participation in majors will likely remain sporadic. The caddie’s remarks serve as a reminder of the void left when a legend steps back. While golf continues to evolve with new stars and formats, Woods’ absence undeniably alters the emotional weight of major tournaments. Whether fans agree with the caddie or not, one thing is clear: Tiger Woods’ influence on golf’s appeal is as profound as ever, even when he’s not on the course.
