In Orlando on Saturday (December 16) Tiger Woods had a family-filled time on the golf course as his 16-year-old daughter, Sam, stepped into the role of his caddie for the first time.
The occasion was part of the PNC Championships at the Ritz-Carlton Golf Club, where former champions team up with family members.
This family golf tradition was already special for Woods, who often partners with his 14-year-old son, Charlie, in these tournaments. However, this time was unique as his eldest child, Sam, took on the caddie responsibilities. The 16-year-old was seen joyfully accompanying her father, handling his golf bag, and even driving him to the next hole in a golf cart.
Expressing his pride after the first round on Saturday, Woods, 47, spoke to GolfWeek, saying: “Sam was fantastic. This is the first time she’s ever done this, so it couldn’t have been any more special for all of us. For me to have both of my kids inside the ropes like this and participating and playing and being part of the game of golf like this, it couldn’t have been more special for me.”
Acknowledging the playful banter that usually occurs among family members during their golf outings at home, Woods said that it felt even more special to have these moments in a tournament setting.
While Woods is accustomed to being a caddy himself, often supporting Charlie in his junior events, he got a taste of his son’s perspective when asked about his caddie skills. Charlie hilariously revealed to GolfWeek: “For dad as a caddie, his reads are hook-bias, and I don’t hook as much as he does. So all of my putts, I miss right. So, I have to account for that.”
Woods shares Sam and Charlie with his ex-wife, Elin Nordegren. Sam’s notable public appearance took place in March 2022 during Tiger’s induction into the World Golf Hall of Fame. Her heartfelt speech addressed the challenges her family faced after her father’s serious car crash in Los Angeles. Sam highlighted his resilience, acknowledging his achievements, including being the first Black and Asian golfer to win a Major and overcoming significant health setbacks.
In her speech, Sam celebrated Woods’ fighting spirit and expressed gratitude for his recovery, stating (via Entertainment Tonight): “About a year ago, you were stuck in your hospital bed at one of your ultimate lows at one of the scariest moments of your life and ours. We didn’t know if you’d come home with two legs or not. Now, not only are you being inducted into the Hall of Fame, but you’re standing here, on your own two feet.”
