During his prime, Tiger Woods took down some of the world’s most challenging golf courses with immense power, accurate iron play, and an exceptional short game.
Woods’ form forced some of the world’s iconic venues to ‘Tiger-proof’ their layouts. Augusta National added yardage in 2001, and St Andrews made similar alterations to the Old Course.
The 15-time major winner’s length and power saw him play a very different game compared to his closest competitors. In 2005, during his prime, Woods averaged 316 yards off the tee and was ranked second on the PGA Tour. What’s more, the world number one ranked fourth for strokes gained off the tee.
Interestingly, Tiger managed to pick up shots despite being one of the more wayward hitters within the professional scene.
Jack Nicklaus names Tiger Woods’ main ‘weakness’
During the 2005 season, Woods only hit 54% of his fairways, which saw him ranked 191st on the PGA Tour.
Jack Nicklaus, speaking in 2022, claimed Woods’ accuracy with the driver was always his weakest point.
“He is probably the most dedicated and determined young man I’ve ever met. He’s got an unbelievable skill level and work ethic. Tiger’s weakness, even though he had the length, was accuracy off the tee,” Nicklaus told Today’s Golfer. “He aimed at the world and missed it, but he got up and down from unbelievable places.”
Considering where Woods ranked for driving accuracy in 2005, it’s remarkable he was still one of the leaders when it came to strokes gained driving.
Tiger Woods’ 2005 record
After breaking through at the 1997 Masters and winning the 2000 US Open at Pebble Beach, many forget just how good Woods was during the 2005 and 2006 seasons.
In 2005, Tiger won six times, including the Masters Tournament and Open Championship at St Andrews. Woods also finished runner-up at the US Open and tied for fourth at the PGA Championship. Had things gone slightly differently, the golfing world would have witnessed a season-long grand slam.
2006, for many, is regarded as one of the best individual performances ever seen in professional golf. Woods won eight times despite only playing in 15 events. The PGA Championship and Open were added to his major resume, and he also finished in a tie for third at The Masters.
Woods’ former coach Hank Haney claimed Tiger’s 2006 form is objectively the best season-long performance.
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