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Tiger Woods has announced the death of his mother Kultida. 

In a statement posted on his social media channels, the former world No.1 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.”

Also known as ‘Tida’, Woods’ mother was from Thailand and met his father, Earl, in 1968 when he was on a military tour in the country.

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The pair settled in Orange County, California, and welcomed their only child on December 30, 1975.

Throughout Woods’ career, his mother was often seen greenside supporting her son before embracing him after victory.

During Tiger’s days as a junior golfer, his mother would shuttle him to golf tournaments and it was she who gave him the idea to wear red.

It would quickly become his signature look on final-round Sundays, and she saw him wear it for the final time just last week.

Kultida was in attendance for Tiger’s second TGL match in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida.

During his acceptance speech for the 2024 Bob Jones Award, Woods praised his mother’s influence and shared a heartfelt tribute.

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“My mom doesn’t get enough credit,” he said. “Everyone thought it was my dad when I went on the road, which it was, but Mom was at home.

“If you don’t know, Mom has been there my entire life. She’s always been there through thick and thin.

“This award, I accept it in humbleness and just unbelievable regard for the past recipients, but I also accept it for my mommy, too. She has allowed me to get here.

“She allowed me to do these things, chase my dreams, and the support and love – I didn’t do this alone. I had the greatest rock that any child could possibly have: my mom. Thank you, Mommy.”


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Michael McEwan is the Deputy Editor of bunkered and has been part of the team since 2004. In that time, he has interviewed almost every major figure within the sport, from Jack Nicklaus, to Rory McIlroy, to Donald Trump. The host of the multi award-winning bunkered Podcast and a member of Balfron Golfing Society, Michael is the author of three books and is the 2023 PPA Scotland 'Writer of the Year' and 'Columnist of the Year'. Dislikes white belts, yellow balls and iron headcovers. Likes being drawn out of the media ballot to play Augusta National.

Deputy Editor

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