Tiger Woods Mother, Kultida, Passes Away – Grieving Golfer Speaks Out

A heartbreaking loss has shaken golf legend Tiger Woods. He shared an emotional message on social media, revealing the passing of someone deeply cherished.

Tiger Woods announced on X that his mother, Kultida Woods, passed away on February 4. He described her as a strong woman whose support was essential to his success.

Tiger Woods hugs his mother, Kultida, after speaking at TPC Sawgrass on February 19, 2010 | Source: Getty Images

“My Mom was a force of nature all her own, her spirit was simply undeniable,” Tiger wrote. “She was my biggest fan, greatest supporter, without her none of my personal achievements would have been possible.”

Kultida, who is of Thai origin, was a constant presence throughout her sons legendary career. Just weeks ago, she attended his TMRW Golf League (TGL) debut, continuing her unwavering support.

Tigers moms strength and warmth left a lasting impact on those who knew her, including fellow golfers. Golfing legend Fred Couples paid tribute to Kultida on X, remembering her as a vibrant presence.

Kutildas influence extended beyond the sidelines, shaping even the smallest details of Tigers game—including a bold tradition that would come to define him: his red shirt on Sundays.

“My mom thought, that being born a Capricorn, that red was my power color,” Woods once said. “And so, in some of the junior golf events in So Cal, I would wear red. And I won.” Wanting to test her belief, he deliberately switched to blue for other tournaments—only to be proven wrong.

Greg Norman and Tiger Woods at the 1995 Masters Tournament | Source: Getty Images

“I didnt win,” Tiger admitted. “And so I then switched to red, and I had a lot more success wearing red.” Realizing the pattern, he eventually made a deal with his mother—he would reserve red for the final round of big events instead of wearing it every day.

Tiger Woods and his mom, Kutilda, during his 2005 Masters win after a playoff against Chris DiMarco on April 10, 2005 | Source: Getty Images

Kultida accepted the compromise. “She said, Fine. Just wear it the last day,” Tiger shared. From then on, his moms belief became a lasting tradition, one he carried into the biggest moments of his career.

As Tiger mourns this profound loss, he carries forward the lessons and strength his mother instilled in him—values that helped shape him into the champion the world knows today.

As Tiger honored his mothers memory, he also reflected on X the deep love she shared with her grandchildren, Sam and Charlie, and expressed gratitude for the support he received during this difficult time.

Just months earlier, on December 21, 2024, he had spent time on the golf course with his kids at the Ritz-Carlton Golf Club in Orlando, captivating fans who noted how much Sam resembles her mother, Elin Nordegren.

A fan comments on the resemblance between San and her mother Elin Nordegren, from a post dated December 22, 2024 | Source: Facebook/UsWeekly

Tiger and Charlie took part in the 2024 PNC Championship, continuing a tradition they’ve maintained for several years. Meanwhile, Sam returned for her second year as a caddie for her dad, having made her debut at an event in 2023.

Tiger, Sam, and Charlie Woods stand on the first tee during the second round of the PNC Championship at Ritz-Carlton Golf Club in Orlando, Florida, on December 22, 2024 | Source: Getty Images

The golfer shares his children with ex-wife Elin Nordegren, whom he married in 2004 and divorced in 2010. Charlie was born in 2009, and Sam in 2007.

Tiger Woods holds Sam, and speaks to Elin Nordegren, on the sidelines before the Cardinal game against the California Bears at Stanford Stadium in Palo Alto, California, on November 21, 2009 | Source: Getty Images

Fans were excited to see Charlie and Sam, with many jumping into comparisons about who the kids resembled, especially Sam, as they wondered if she took after her mom or dad. One fan quickly pointed out Sams resemblance to her mom, “Daughter looks like Elin. Beautiful like her mama.”

Sam, Charlie, and Tiger Woods prepare to tee off from the second tee during the second round of the PNC Championship | Source: Getty Images

Someone else noticed the family resemblance, , “Great looking kids. She looks so much like her mom.” A different fan was struck by the similarity, adding, “Such cute kids! They look like their mother.” and another remarked, “Look like their Mom. Beautiful kids.”

Sam and Tiger Woods walk the 11th hole during the first round of the PNC Championship at Ritz-Carlton Golf Club in Orlando, Florida, on December 21, 2024 | Source: Getty Images

While some fans saw a strong resemblance between Sam and her mother, others believed she looked more like Tiger. Many also admired her smile, noting its similarity to her fathers. Meanwhile, another fan took a moment to praise Charlies golfing skills.

Sam and Tiger Woods in Orlando, Florida on December 22, 2024 | Source: Getty Images

Another fan celebrated the familys good looks with “His children are gorgeous, they resemble both parents.” A fan also acknowledged the familys bond, “A proud father. Kudos to their mother as well 👏.”

Sam and Tiger Woods walk the fifth hole during the first round of the PNC Championship | Source: Getty Images

One fan was particularly captivated by Sam, expressing admiration for her appearance. Another fan appreciated the familys bond, noting how their time on the golf course reflected their love for being together.

Luke Wise, Charlie, Sam, and Tiger Woods look on while playing the 13th hole during the first round of the PNC Championship | Source: Getty Images

Tigers daughter was named Sam Alexis in honor of both her parents families and her late grandfather. Her father explained that the name was tied to his late father, who had always called him Sam instead of Tiger.

Sam and Tiger Woods on December 22, 2024 | Source: Getty Images

“He rarely ever called me Tiger. I would ask him, Why dont you ever call me Tiger? He says, Well, you look more like a Sam,” explained the golfer. Therefore, to Tiger Woods, the name Sam was fitting for his daughter as she was born just a day after Fathers Day.

Sam adores her dad, whom she has previously showered with praise. During the Golf Hall of Fame induction ceremony in March 2022, Sam praised her fathers resilience. She celebrated his achievements, including being the first Black and Asian golfer to win a major, winning his fifth Masters after back surgeries, and walking again just months after a devastating crash.

Currently, Sam is taking a different path from her brother, Charlie, choosing not to follow in her dads footsteps as a golfer. Tiger once revealed that Sam holds a “negative connotation” towards the sport, as it was what often took him away during her childhood.

Tiger and Sam Woods on December 22, 2024 | Source: Getty Images

At the height of his career, Tiger frequently traveled for games, leaving young Sam behind. However, father and daughter have since built a strong bond through shared interests outside of golf, while Charlie and Tiger enjoy spending time together on the course.

Tiger Woods reacts with Charlie Woods after making the first hole-in-one of his career on the fourth hole during the second round of the PNC Championship | Source: Getty Images

On December 23, 2024, Charlie made headlines during the final round of the PNC Championship by sinking his first-ever hole-in-one at the Ritz-Carlton Golf Club in Florida. Using a 7-iron, he achieved the incredible feat on a par-3 hole.

Charlie Woods at the final round of the 2024 PNC Championship in Florida, posted on December 23, 2024 | Source: YouTube.com/PGATOUR

In the video capturing the moment, the teens focus was evident as he took a smooth swing and watched the balls trajectory.

Charlie Woods at the final round of the 2024 PNC Championship in Florida, posted on December 23, 2024 | Source: YouTube.com/PGATOUR

The ball landed roughly six feet to the left of the hole and gently rolled into the cup.

Charlie Woods at the final round of the 2024 PNC Championship in Florida, posted on December 23, 2024 | Source: YouTube.com/PGATOUR

As the ball disappeared, Charlie paused mid-stride, raising his hand with an open palm to waist level while a surprised smile spread across his face.

Charlie Woods at the final round of the 2024 PNC Championship in Florida, posted on December 23, 2024 | Source: YouTube.com/PGATOUR

The crowd erupted in cheers as the young golfer turned to his father, Tiger, for a heartfelt celebratory hug. Their matching red shirts and black pants added to the iconic moment, a nod to Tigers signature style.

Charlie and Tiger Woods share a hug at the 2024 PNC Championship in Florida, posted on December 23, 2024 | Source: YouTube.com/PGATOUR

Tiger beamed with pride and exclaimed, “Yeah!” and gave Charlie a playful push as they celebrated the moment together.

Tiger Woods playfully pushes Charlie after his milestone at the 2024 PNC Championship in Florida, posted on December 23, 2024 | Source: YouTube.com/PGATOUR

After the round, Charlie spoke about his accomplishment with a mix of awe and excitement. “It was awesome,” he said. “No one made a mistake today, so that was some of the most fun Ive ever had. On top of that, I made an ace. I dont think I can top that.”

Charlie Woods reacts after holing out on the fourth hole at the 2024 PNC Championship on December 22, 2024 | Source: Getty Images

For Tiger, the moment was as special as any in his storied career. “Thats one of the highlights weve ever had,” he shared.

Tiger Woods and his son Charlie walk the fourth hole during the second round of the 2024 PNC Championship in Orlando on December 22, 2024 | Source: Getty Images

Reflecting on Charlies growth in the game, Tiger added, “On the hole previous, he made his first eagle (in a previous PNC), and now he just made his first hole-in-one. Its a magical two-hole stretch. Im just so happy for him and for the enjoyment we had as a family.”

Acknowledging that he is not in peak physical shape for competitive play, Tiger emphasized his value as a dependable teammate in scramble-style golf, where players contribute their best shots collectively.

Tiger Woods and his son Charlie react on the 16th green during the second round of the 2024 PNC Championship in Orlando on December 22, 2024 | Source: Getty Images

He expressed that the tournaments greatest reward was the opportunity to partner with his son and share such meaningful moments on the course.

Team Woods tied for the first-round lead at 13-under 59 alongside Team Langer (Bernhard and Jason Langer) and Team Singh (Vijay and Qass Singh), setting the stage for a thrilling finale. In the playoff, Team Langer clinched the title with a precise approach shot and an 18-foot eagle putt.

Read alsoTiger Woods Daughter, Sam, 17, Joins Her Dad and Brother Charlie as a Caddie at the PNC Championship – PhotosGetting Back Together!: Tiger Woods Ex-wife, Elin Nordegren, Makes a Rare Appearance at the 2024 PNC Championship, Sparking TalksTiger Woods Son Charlie, 15, Makes His First Ever Hole-in-One at the PNC Championship 2024 — VideoAdvertisement

Team Woods finished as runners-up, marking their second top-two finish at the PNC Championship. Their previous best performance came in 2021, when they placed second, two strokes behind John Daly and his son, John Daly II.

Following Team Langers championship, Bernhard expressed confidence in Team Woodss future success, “Im convinced they are going to win this thing in the next few years. They are just too good.”

While Tiger remains a dominant figure in golf, the legendary athlete acknowledged that he once lost to his son during a game of golf. “Yeah, he beat me for nine holes. Yet to beat me for 18 holes. That day is coming. Im just prolonging it as long as I possibly can,” Tiger admitted.

As the son of a golf legend, Charlie constantly faces high expectations. However, Tiger encourages him with simple advice. “You know, Charlie is Charlie. Yes, hes my son. Hes going to have that last name as part of the sport, but I just want him to be himself,” he said.

The doting dad continued, “Thats what weve been [and] we will always focus on. I will always encourage it, for him to carve his own name, carve his own path, and have his own journey.”

Tiger and Charlie Woods walk to practice for the 2024 U.S. Open in Pinehurst, North Carolina, on June 10, 2024 | Source: Getty Images

Tiger expressed confidence in Charlies resilience when asked how he handled the pressures of the spotlight, “I think he is doing a great job.” He explained that his son faces unique challenges as part of a generation constantly under social media’s scrutiny, where every moment is recorded and observed.

Tiger acknowledged that this visibility is a reality Charlie must navigate as he grows, both as a golfer and as a person. “I try to do the best job I possibly can as a parent,” Tiger said. “Im always here for him.”

Tiger and Charlie Woods watch from the second hole during a U.S. Open practice round at Pinehurst Resort, North Carolina, on June 11, 2024 | Source: Getty Images

Charlies hole-in-one at the 2024 PNC Championship showcased his skill and the strong bond between him and Tiger, marking a memorable moment in their golfing journey.

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