Golfing legend Tiger Woods has opened up about the profound impact of the recent assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump, revealing it severely affected his preparations for the upcoming Open Championship.
Woods, 48, disclosed to BBC Sport that the news of the July 13 shooting reached him mid-flight from the United States to Scotland, where he was set to compete. The incident left him unable to sleep throughout the overseas journey, as he was glued to the unfolding coverage:
“I didn’t accomplish a lot because I wasn’t in the right frame of mind. It was a long night and that’s all we watched the entire time on the way over here. I didn’t sleep at all on the flight, and then we just got on the golf course.”
The relationship between Woods and Trump dates back years, highlighted by Trump awarding Woods the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2019. Despite their history, Woods struggled to focus on his physical preparations for the Royal Troon event following the traumatic incident earlier in the week.
Tiger Woods’ History and Preparation Amidst Turmoil
Former President Trump, struck in the right ear during the attempt by 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks, faced imminent danger at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. Secret Service agents swiftly neutralized the assailant, who had also planted explosive devices nearby, tragically claiming the life of firefighter Corey Comperatore.
Woods, a veteran of the sport with 15 major titles, including three victories at the British Open, expressed his determination to continue competing despite recent doubts raised by fellow golf pros:
“As a past champion, I’m exempt until I’m 60. Colin’s not – he’s not a past champion, so he’s not exempt. So he doesn’t get that opportunity to make that decision. I do.”
This year marks Woods’ return to all four majors since 2019, reflecting on his enduring commitment to competitive golf:
“I’ll play as long as I can play, and I feel like I still can win the event.”