Tiger Woods Found Himself in Despair After Finding a Devastating News About His Namesake in 1997: ‘Stronger Than I Can Explain’

Tiger Woods is one of the most iconic and successful golfers of all time. With a career spanning over two decades, Woods has won numerous major championships and set records that may never be broken. 

The legend was born as Eldrick Tont Woods. Later on, his father Earl Woods started to refer to him as Tiger. Although His nickname beautifully compliments his aggressive playing style and his dominance in the golf, what is the story behind his famous nickname, “Tiger”? 

Woods never got to meet his namesake

The golf great was named after Colonel Tiger Phong, who was a great pal of his father from Vietnam. He had grown up hearing stories about the bravery of Phong. He was extremely interested in meeting the great soldier, after whom he was named. But, alas, he got the news of him passing away. 

This has left a deep imprint on Woods. “The effect of finding out about his death was stronger than I can explain,” he said.

He reminisced about how was an extremely hot-headed person like Phong. “From all I’ve heard, the three of us are alike. I’m more hot tempered than my father is now. But he used to be like me – and so was Tiger One,” Woods added. 

Read more: Tiger Woods: ‘I Can Still Compete With These Kids’

Woods feels admiration and respect for the late colonel. He has praised his dedication and skill as a military leader. Woods also acknowledged the weight of the pressure and responsibility that comes with the name “Tiger.”

Why did Wood Sr. name his son “Tiger”?

Woods Sr. had a distinguished career in the United States Army. He served in the Vietnam War as a Green Beret. During his time in Vietnam, he met Col. Tiger Phong. The two soon became friends. But tragically, Phong went missing at the end of the war when South Vietnam fell.

Wood Sr. was deeply impacted by this incident. But, he always remembered his friend’s bravery and hence decided to nickname his son after him.

He always wished that Phong would one day hear about his son and connect the dots. But unfortunately, Phong died just a year after the war.

Watch this story: Famous Digital Creator Adds Spice With Her Sizzling ‘Tiger Bikini’ Amidst Rumored Tiger Woods 2023 Comeback

Woods’ and his family went to Vietnam to meet with Phong’s family. They further learned that his family came to know about his death 10 years after the incident!

What are your thoughts on Tiger’s name? Let us know what you think in the comments below.