**Tiger Woods Exits PGA Championship Early After Struggling at Valhalla**
**LOUISVILLE, Ky.** – Tiger Woods had a tough day at the PGA Championship, resulting in a 6-over 77 and missing the cut at Valhalla. Despite conditions being favorable for scoring, Woods faltered in a three-hole stretch (Nos. 2-4), playing them 7 over par and ultimately missing the cut by eight shots. He concluded his round at 7-over 179 in his third appearance at Valhalla, a course where he had one of his most memorable performances in 2000.
“Unfortunately, my scores did not reflect the fantastic support I received from the fans and the great week I had,” Woods remarked. “I just hit too many poor shots.”
A significant portion of Woods’ troubles occurred on the second and fourth holes, where he recorded two triple bogeys due to short-game errors and compounded mistakes.
This missed cut at the PGA adds to Woods’ string of disappointing finishes in major tournaments since his return to competition in 2022 after a serious right leg injury. In six appearances, he has missed two cuts, withdrawn twice, and his best finish has been 47th place.
Though Woods mentioned that his physical condition is improving, his competitive form has not yet returned. Over two rounds, he was 19 shots behind the leader, Xander Schauffele, and ranked 140th out of 153 in strokes gained: tee to green.
“I need to play more,” Woods admitted, although he doesn’t plan to play again until the U.S. Open. “Hopefully, everything will come together during my practice sessions at home, and I’ll be ready for Pinehurst.”
**Schauffele’s Victory and Louisville’s Enthusiastic Support**
After winning the PGA Championship by one stroke, Xander Schauffele addressed the spectators at Valhalla Golf Club, expressing his appreciation for their support. Schauffele’s 21-under score set a record for a major championship, narrowly defeating Bryson DeChambeau and Viktor Hovland, who were close contenders until the final putts.
The PGA Championship’s fourth event at Valhalla showcased impressive performances and strong local support, ensuring that big-time golf will continue to return to Louisville. The championship set records for attendance and revenue, with 700,000 square feet of hospitality tents marking a significant achievement.
Valhalla co-owner Jimmy Kirchdorfer highlighted the financial success of the event, noting the record-breaking general admission and hospitality ticket sales. This strong financial performance suggests that the PGA of America will continue to bring major golf events to Valhalla.
Despite these successes, Valhalla needs to address logistical issues, such as managing parking and pedestrian traffic. The tragic death of John C. Mills, a security guard hit by a bus while crossing Shelbyville Road, underscored the dangers of current arrangements.
The incident also led to an embarrassing moment for the city when Louisville police mistakenly arrested world No. 1 golfer Scottie Scheffler as he tried to navigate around the accident scene. Once the charges are dropped, this incident is unlikely to impact future events.
Kirchdorfer is confident that Valhalla will host more major golf events in the future, although the PGA Championship has already selected sites through 2031. The gap between past events has varied, with a 10-year wait from Rory McIlroy’s 2014 win and a 14-year wait from Woods’ 2000 victory.
Louisville native and St. Xavier graduate Justin Thomas, who finished tied for eighth at 13 under, expressed his hope for more opportunities to host major events in Louisville, highlighting the city’s enthusiastic support for golf tournaments.
The PGA Championship’s return to Valhalla coincided with the 60th anniversary of Louisville native Bobby Nichols winning the 1964 PGA Championship, reinforcing the city’s rich golfing heritage. With Schauffele’s victory, Louisville continues to establish itself as a significant location for major golf events.
