Tiger Woods’ mother, Kultida Woods, has sadly died.
The 15-time major winner confirmed the news with a heartbreaking personal tribute on social media.
Woods wrote: “It is with heartfelt sadness that I want to share that my dear mother, Kultida Woods, passed away early this morning.
“My Mom was a force of nature all her own, her spirit was simply undeniable.
“She was quick with the needle and a laugh. She was my biggest fan, greatest supporter, without her none of my personal achievements would have been possible.
“She was loved by so many, but especially by her two grandchildren, Sam and Charlie. Thank you all for your support, prayers and privacy at this difficult time for me and my family. Love you Mom.”
The cause of death is not publicly known.
Woods’ announcement sparked an outpouring of support from the sporting world and beyond.
NFL legend Tom Brady responded to the post with three heart emojis, while US president Donald Trump wrote his own tribute on ‘Truth Social’.
Trump said: “I was just informed that Tiger Woods’ wonderful Mother, Kultida, passed away — She has gone onto greener fairways! Kultida Woods was an amazing influence on Tiger, and gave him much of his strength and brilliance. Melania and I send our love and prayers to Tiger and his incredible family!”
‘Tida’ Woods was in attendance at TGL on January 27 to watch her son compete in the new simulator golf league.
Woods was seen talking to his mother in the crowd, joking that he would ‘try not to suck’ after a disappointing debut.
It summed up an intimate and loving mother-son relationship that Woods benefitted from throughout his glittering career.
Tida Woods became a familiar face for many golf fans, often waiting behind the 18th green to congratulate her son on his major victories.
Woods has often spoke about the influence of his parents and the sacrifices they made to help him pursue his dreams.
He famously broke down in tears after winning the 2006 Open Championship shortly after the death of his father, Earl.
Upon his induction to golf’s Hall of Fame in 2022, Woods revealed that his parents took out a second mortgage to fund his junior golf career.
Fighting back tears, the 49-year-old said: “Without the sacrifices of mom, who took me to all those junior golf tournaments and dad, who’s not here, but who instilled in me this work ethic to fight for what I believe in, to chase after my dreams – that nothing’s ever going to be given to you, everything’s going to be earned.”
More to follow.
