AUGUSTA, Ga. – Less than two years ago, Tiger Woods was uncertain if he would play competitive golf again due to multiple back surgeries. Not only has he returned to the game, the 43-year-old ex-Stanford star is a major champion again.
Sunday at Augusta National Golf Club, Woods captured the 83rd Masters by one stroke for his 15th major title, three behind all-time leader Jack Nicklaus. Woods earned his fifth green jacket and first since 2005, firing a 2-under-par 70 to edge Brooks Koepka, Dustin Johnson and Xander Schauffele in a wild back nine finish.
"There were so many guys who had a chance to win," said Woods, who began the final round two strokes off the lead and had never won a major coming from behind on the last day.
"That will be the greatest scene in golf. Forever."
— PGA TOUR (@PGATOUR) April 15, 2019
"If that doesn't bring a tear to your eye, if you're a parent, you're not human." pic.twitter.com/xC8165hypE
Woods previously won at Augusta in 1997, 2001, 2002 and 2005. Only Nicklaus (6) has claimed more titles.
It marked Woods' 81st career victory on the PGA Tour, one behind all-time leader Sam Snead with 82.
Woods birdied three-of-the-last six holes on Sunday to separate himself.
"Just unreal, to be honest with you," said Woods, who competed for the Cardinal in 1995-96 and 1996-97, winning the NCAA individual crown as a sophomore.