Why Tiger Woods Hated This Drill (But Did It Anyway)

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Post on Feb 22, 2025

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Tiger Woods's Loathing: The Drill That Shaped a Champion (But Made Him Suffer)

Orlando, FL – Tiger Woods, a name synonymous with golfing dominance, is known for his relentless pursuit of perfection. This dedication, however, often manifested in grueling practice sessions involving drills he famously despised. One such drill, rarely seen by the public eye but widely discussed within golf circles, involved relentlessly hitting flop shots onto a small, elevated green. While the specifics of the exact target size and distance are not publicly documented, sources close to Woods describe it as an exceptionally challenging exercise designed to hone his short game precision and control under intense pressure.

The drill's design was brutally effective. It forced Woods to master the delicate art of controlling the trajectory and distance of his flop shots, crucial for navigating tricky lies around the green. Each missed shot, often landing short or long of the minuscule target, represented a failure, a deviation from the flawless execution Woods relentlessly demanded of himself. This relentless repetition, even under immense frustration, played a crucial role in shaping his renowned short game mastery—a skill that differentiated him from his rivals and contributed significantly to his 15 major championship wins.

Why the hatred? Interviews and analyses of Woods’ career suggest several reasons. The drill wasn't just physically demanding; it was mentally excruciating. The consistent pressure of hitting the tiny target, coupled with the knowledge that even minor imperfections led to failure, fueled frustration. Moreover, sources close to Woods’ inner circle indicate that the inherent unpredictability of flop shots, even for a player of his caliber, added to the psychological torment. The drill exposed his vulnerabilities, a stark contrast to the image of invincibility he often projected on the course.

Former caddie Steve Williams, in his book "The Greatest Game Ever Played," although not explicitly referencing this particular drill, alludes to the intensity and often self-imposed torture of Woods’ practice regimen. Williams described Woods’ dedication as bordering on obsessive, pushing himself to the limits of physical and mental endurance. The drill in question perfectly encapsulates this relentless approach. The near-masochistic nature of the exercise underscores Woods’ commitment to refining even the minutest aspects of his game.

The story of this intensely disliked but diligently executed drill is more than just an anecdote. It reveals a crucial aspect of Woods' character and the foundation of his success. His willingness to endure the mental and physical agony, to confront and conquer his weaknesses, is a testament to his unwavering commitment to excellence, a commitment that fueled his legendary career. While the exact details of the drill might remain somewhat shrouded in mystery, its impact on Woods' legacy is undeniable. It's a potent symbol of the sacrifices and self-imposed challenges that transformed a gifted golfer into one of the greatest athletes of all time. The drill, despite the hatred, became a critical tool in his relentless pursuit of golfing perfection.