As Tiger Woods steps onto the respected Royal Troon Golf Course, a familiar figure is absent from his side. Charlie Woods, his son and trusted swing coach, won’t be able to join Woods’ major venture this time. However, Woods’ preparations haven’t been derailed. The whispers of ‘Who’s next?’ echo through the golf world, as the 15-time major champion prepares to tackle the Open Championship without his mentor, with just one day left for the commencement of the final major.

The Open on its X handle shared a short video where fans witnessed Tiger Woods practicing shots on the range, a day before the final major started. His longtime friend Rob McNamara accompanied him, and before the clip ended, Woods asked him on his swing, “If that’s a good one or not”. It seemed Woods’ friend and TGR ventures Executive Vice President landed to help fill the void left by Charlie’s absence.

However, Charlie Woods not joining his father at the Open Championship is due to a remarkable achievement of his own. The 15-year-old golfer has qualified for his first-ever USGA event, the US Junior Amateur. The tournament is scheduled for July 22nd, and it seems McNamara is taking his place for the time being.

Knowing Woods since his junior golf days, McNamara has been a constant in his inner circle. While not a coach in the classical sense, his deep understanding of Woods’ game and swing makes him an asset. Woods described, “He knows my game. One, he’s a good player. Two, he’s got a good eye, and he has seen me go through changes and iterations in the game of golf.” Moreover, the 3x The Open champ has once opted to trust him with a caddying role, during the 2023 Hero World Challenge. 

On the other hand, McNamara added to their connection on the course and, stated, “Because I’ve played with him so much and practiced with him so much over the years I kind of know what it should look like or what typically he’s trying to do.” It’s a testament to the trust Woods has in his judgment and expertise. With over 500 rounds of golf played together, McNamara knows Tiger Woods’ swing almost as well as the man himself. But why does Woods trust him so much? Let us dive more into McNamara’s background.

Tiger Woods right-hand man, Rob McNamara 

Their journey began in junior golf days in Southern California, where they bonded over their shared passion for the game. As they grew in their careers, McNamara’s impressive amateur golf resume consisted of a Junior and Amateur golf career and a Physics degree from Santa Clara University, which paved the way for his transition into the business world. 

With a natural talent for management, he joined IMG in 2000, overseeing Woods’ account with expertise. Later in 2005, he joined TGR Ventures as Vice President. McNamara then rose through the ranks with dedication and grace and attained the role of Executive Vice President in 2020. Through the ups and downs of Woods’ career, McNamara has been a constant presence, offering guidance and support with unwavering loyalty. 

What do you think of Tiger Woods’ chances at the Open Championship? And what’s your take on Rob McNamara’s role in Tiger Woods’ team? Let us know in the comments section below!