flashman181

The Striped One returned to competitive golf this morning – in his own tournament. Shot 77. Maybe not a massive surprise after such a lay off. Until you watch the round. It wasnt snap hook drives, lack of distance control, putting woes. He chunked at least 4 chips! Now anyone who has played golf with a certain dedication would understand the mental anquish of the dreaded yips. Usually affects putting but can also affect chipping – ask Brett Ogle. Not suggesting it is at that stage yet but the next couple of rounds will be fascinating to watch. If he can come back from that display quickly then he truly is a master of his mind. If not, say goodbye Tiger.

10 years ago it was assumed he would beat Jacks record of 18 majors. He has 14. There didnt appear to be a lot of opposition and lets face it they were a tad intimidated by a Tiger on the prowl. Golf is a mental game and often just seeing his name zooming up leader board could affect some players. Then he got some injuries while some other players got some belief. People were still rooting for him though . Speaking of which, his off course stick work was then revealed and the star lost some of its lustre. He no longer intimidated but could still play – won 5 times in 2013 , no majors but no mean feat. When he was on he was still the one to beat but he was on less regularly. Then more injuries and an aging body start to catch up. Young guys like Rory have learnt from Tiger and pumped up – and dumped annoying girlfriends. These guys are athletes even though some still like checked pants.

Trust me once your body starts to go and the niggles add up there is no getting it back – once you reach a certain age. Even with a die hard effort old Father Time marches on. Like his half sister Mother Nature he can be a real bitch. Just more predictable

So set your alarms for tomorrow boys and girls. You may be seeing the end of a sporting phenomenon or the rebirth of a true legend . Either way Jack can rest easy methinks