Ten years on, Tiger Woods’ majestic US Open victory at Pebble Beach still sparks awe. It launched the run of major success that made Woods the first golfer to hold all four major titles at once.
But the aura of invincibility the victory helped create has faded, and Woods arrives at Pebble Beach Golf Links looking decidedly mortal, still seeking to get his game in shape after a lengthy break in the aftermath of a sex scandal. “As far as my game, I’m very excited,” said Woods, who has played only four tournaments this year and played four rounds in just two.
Phil Mickelson has no shortage of goals to shoot for this week. The Masters champion is the only golfer with a shot at claiming the second leg of the grand slam, but to do so he must win a first US Open title after an agonizing five runner-up finishes.
To end the heartbreak at Pebble Beach would be especially sweet for the Californian, whose 40th birthday falls on the eve of the tournament. But it won’t be easy.
“This course can really bite you,” said Mickelson, who can also overtake Woods atop the world rankings here.
Ernie Els, who was second behind Woods in 2000 with a three-over total to Woods’ 12-under, will play with Woods and Lee Westwood in the first two rounds.
Ireland’s Padraig Harrington said he believes any sports record can be broken, even Woods’ 12-under US Open record.
With Woods absent or struggling this year, plenty of golfers have stepped up to fill the void.
Veterans Els and Jim Furyk have both won twice on the US PGA Tour. England’s Lee Westwood was runner-up to Mickelson at the Masters, has top-three finishes in his last three majors and boosted his confidence on Sunday with a US tour win in Memphis. —AFP