It’s been over five years since Tiger Woods historic U.S. Open victory at Torrey Pines. Since then, he’s had 13 additional wins, none of which have been at major venues.
He has however had 9 top-6 finishes in major tournaments during that span, which begs the question–why hasn’t one of the best closers the game of golf has ever seen been able to get it done when it really counts?
Weekend Struggles
From 2005 to 2011 Tiger Woods was a combined 60-under par on the weekend in major events. In his last seven majors, he’s been a combined 23-over par. To put that into perspective, he’s been a combined 11-under in the first two rounds in his last 6 majors. Plain and simple, Tiger has been able to put himself in good position going into the weekend but he hasn’t played well down the stretch.
Putting Woes
When Tiger putts well, he wins, and this year, his statistics have been among the best on tour. But what he hasn’t been able to do in recent years is putt well in the majors, and he knows it. He’s publicly voiced his displeasure with his game on the greens in a number of press conferences and when the flat stick isn’t working, it’s virtually impossible to win.
Better Competition
Five years ago there weren’t too many players that could challenge Tiger when it came to physical ability. Today, there’s a handful. 10 of the last 13 major tournaments have been won by first time major champions. Young players like Rory, Webb Simpson, Keegan Bradley and Jordan Spieth are becoming more and more common on tour and when the competition is better it’s harder to win tournaments.
Can’t Get The 54-Hole Lead
Tiger is 40 for 42 at converting 54-hole leads into victories throughout his career. The problem is, he hasn’t been able to get himself into that position. He’s undoubtedly the best closer the game has ever seen but he’s never come from behind to win a major.