In the picturesque setting of the PNC Championship in Orlando, Florida, the golf world witnessed the awe-inspiring prowess as Charlie Woods, under the watchful eyes of his iconic father, Tiger Woods, took center stage. The air buzzed with anticipation and excitement as Charlie, with youthful exuberance, aimed for a 321-yard shot on a challenging par-four hole.
Tiger Woods expresses fatherly pride at junior Woods’ achievements amid scrutiny
During the first round of the PNC Championship, Charlie Woods proved just how much he’s grown, especially since the first time he competed in the event in 2020. What did he do? The 14-year-old carried the ball 321 yards, with it just rolling off the green. Because of his age, he teed off ahead of where the Open-category players did, with his drive having avoided the native area and sand bunker. It was a remarkable shot to add to the list of remarkable things Charlie Woods did during the PNC Championships. And well, he thought so, too.
Following Saturday’s outing, Charlie assessed, “I drove the ball really good today. Didn’t miss a fairway and still managed to shoot eight-under.” He matter-of-factly added, “We just suck at putting,” referring to how the father-son duo missed their putts for an eagle attempt after Charlie’s shot, and he was understandably disappointed. Team Woods is currently tied for fifth in the standings, 19 strokes below par. But despite Charlie’s disappointment, Tiger Woods had only nice things to say.
Tiger told the media, “I just have a lot more fun doing it with him. We have so much fun at home practicing and playing games. It’s a special bonding that happens that not a lot of parents get a chance to have.” This came after the 15-time major winner expressed his admiration for his son’s evolving skills. Ahead of the PNC Championship, Tiger said of Charlie, “You can see how much he’s grown from last year. It’s amazing how much has grown, has changed, and it’s a moving target with him, right? He’s grown somewhere near 4 inches this year, so his swing has changed, it’s evolved, clubs have evolved.”
At the end of the day, though, it was Charlie Woods’ 321-yard shot that stole the spotlight. But as critical as he was about missing a putt after making that shot, it was the shot in question that faced criticism online.
Fans question Charlie Woods’ skills
As the official PGA Tour social media accounts swiftly shared a video of Charlie Woods’ extraordinary drive, the response from the golf community was swift and, surprisingly, not entirely positive. Critics emerged with comments dissecting the authenticity and circumstances of the shot.
One fan claimed, “This kid barely swings over 100. He just isn’t as long as the broadcast would have you believe. I know a kid who is taught by somebody who knows both kids well. Charlie isn’t as long. So 101 102 tops for speed.”
Another fan echoed the sentiment, calling golf media out for disseminating misinformation. They expressed how there was no way the 14-year-old’s drive was that long.
The skepticism continued with remarks suggesting alternative club choices and challenging the accuracy of the yardage, with some fans even comparing their skills with Charlie’s
Considering Charlie Woods went for the straight-line shot, there was no way it could’ve been 321 yards. Yes, the distance from the teeing ground to the hole, taking into account bends and curves, would’ve been that much. But fans find it hard to believe that Charlie’s shot went that long.
Another fan “called BS” on the straight-line yardage. While some speculated his drive was only a little over 100 yards, this commentator was a little more generous, speculating Woods Jr swung 250 yards.
Despite Tiger’s positive commentary, the criticism surrounding Charlie’s impressive drive serves as a reminder of the intense scrutiny that accompanies the Woods’ name on the golf course. As the PNC Championship unfolds, the debate over Charlie’s remarkable shot continues, leaving fans and critics alike eagerly awaiting each swing, with opinions divided on the true magnitude of the young golfer’s talents.
