Tiger Woods may not be competing in this week’s Hero World Challenge, but his influence is palpable. As tournament host at Albany, Woods has engaged with players and shared insights during his press conference.
Tiger Woods and His Impact at the Hero World Challenge
Woods has been present throughout the week, observing the players and offering advice. On Saturday, he interacted with contenders, including Sweden’s Alex Noren. Their conversation revolved around Noren’s swing, showcasing Woods’ dedication to the game.
Admiration for Scottie Scheffler
During the press conference, Woods expressed his admiration for World No. 1 Scottie Scheffler. He highlighted several aspects of Scheffler’s game:
- Iron performance
- Shot shaping
- Trajectory management
- Distance control
- Spin control on various pin locations
Woods emphasized that these subtle skills are essential for success over 72 holes, noting the importance of trajectory for distance control. He appreciated Scheffler’s ability to handle wind and spin, underscoring how enjoyable it is to watch skilled players perform.
Alex Noren’s Journey
Noren, who served as an assistant captain for the European Ryder Cup team earlier this year, has had a noteworthy season. He recently claimed DP World Tour events in August and September and currently ranks within the top 20 world players. After a five-under 67, he finds himself in T3, just three shots behind leader Sepp Straka and two behind Scheffler.
Reflecting on his performance, Noren stated, “Last year, I took a lot of time off to work on my game. This year, I tried to play more tournaments.” He aims to address his weaknesses over the upcoming month and a half.
The Influence of Tiger Woods
For Noren, meeting Woods was a memorable experience. He shared, “I grew up idolizing Tiger. I have so much respect and admiration for him.” Their exchange was filled with enthusiasm, demonstrating Woods’ passion for golf while interacting with younger players.
Woods may not be playing, but his presence at the Hero World Challenge continues to inspire both current players and fans alike.
