On Saturday in Orlando (December 16), Tiger Woods enjoyed a family-filled day on the golf course, with his 16-year-old daughter, Sam, taking on the role of his caddie for the first time. This special moment unfolded during the PNC Championships at the Ritz-Carlton Golf Club, where former champions team up with their family members.
While Woods often partners with his 14-year-old son, Charlie, in these tournaments, this time was exceptional as his eldest child, Sam, assumed the caddie responsibilities. The 16-year-old was spotted joyfully accompanying her father, managing his golf bag, and even driving him to the next hole in a golf cart.
Expressing his pride after the first round on Saturday, the 47-year-old Woods shared with GolfWeek, “Sam was fantastic. This is the first time she’s ever done this, so it couldn’t have been any more special for all of us. For me to have both of my kids inside the ropes like this and participating and playing and being part of the game of golf like this, it couldn’t have been more special for me.”
Acknowledging the playful banter that typically unfolds among family members during their golf outings at home, Woods emphasized that these moments felt even more special in a tournament setting.
While Woods is no stranger to being a caddy himself, often supporting Charlie in his junior events, he gained insight into his son’s perspective when asked about his caddie skills. Charlie humorously disclosed to GolfWeek: “For dad as a caddie, his reads are hook-bias, and I don’t hook as much as he does. So all of my putts, I miss right. So, I have to account for that.”
Woods shares custody of Sam and Charlie with his ex-wife, Elin Nordegren. Sam made a notable public appearance in March 2022 during Tiger’s induction into the World Golf Hall of Fame. During her heartfelt speech, she addressed the challenges her family faced after her father’s serious car crash in Los Angeles. Sam emphasized his resilience, acknowledging his achievements, including being the first Black and Asian golfer to win a Major and overcoming significant health setbacks.
In her speech, Sam celebrated Woods’ fighting spirit and expressed gratitude for his recovery, stating (via Entertainment Tonight), “About a year ago, you were stuck in your hospital bed at one of your ultimate lows, at one of the scariest moments of your life and ours. We didn’t know if you’d come home with two legs or not. Now, not only are you being inducted into the Hall of Fame, but you’re standing here, on your own two feet.”
It’s wonderful to see how much Tiger Woods’ kids love their dad!