In the realm of golf, Tiger Woods is a name that inspires reverence and admiration. But behind his unrivaled achievements on the course lies the quiet but resolute influence of a remarkable woman—his Thai-born mother, Kultida Woods. Sadly, Tiger recently announced her passing at the age of 80, a loss that has prompted condolences from across the globe.
Fondly reflecting on his mother’s legacy, Tiger described her as a “force of nature,” attributing much of his strength and success to her unwavering support. He shared that the iconic Sunday red shirt he dons during tournaments is a tribute to her belief that red, his power color as a Capricorn from Thailand, was instrumental in his victories. This heartfelt tribute revealed a profound bond between mother and son that transcended the realm of sports.
Kultida, affectionately known as “Tida,” spent her final days in South Florida, a place teeming with memories and love. Despite the heart-wrenching news of her passing on February 4, she left the world with a legacy that will forever be enshrined in the annals of golfing history. Tiger’s poignant social media post expressed his deep sorrow, emphasizing her undeniable spirit, quick wit, and constant support. He acknowledged that she was fiercely loved, especially by her grandchildren, Sam and Charlie, who are undoubtedly carrying forward her indomitable spirit.
Among those who acknowledged Kultida’s influence was former President Donald Trump, who described her as “an amazing influence” on Tiger via his Truth Social platform. Her remarkable journey began in Kanchanaburi, West Thailand, where she met Earl Woods while working as a civilian secretary in a US Army office in Bangkok. Despite language barriers, she embraced a new life in America, moving with her husband first to Brooklyn and then to Cypress, California, in 1968. It was here that their son, Tiger, was born in 1975.
While Earl Woods is largely credited with introducing Tiger to golf, it was Kultida who instilled in him the discipline and unyielding determination that defined his career. During his acceptance of the Bob Jones Award from the USGA last year, Tiger praised both parents, but especially his mother, for always being there, navigating life’s highs and lows with him. “Everyone thought it was my dad when I went on the road, which it was. But Mum was at home,” he said, highlighting the dual support system that shaped him.
A unique tradition that Kultida pioneered was the gifting of red shirts and a new tiger head cover for Tiger’s driver each year, adorned with the affectionate “Love from Mum” in Thai. Her influence, however, extended beyond mere tradition; she was a staple presence at both major championships and local tournaments, always armed with a hot dog for sustenance and a quarter for a phone call home after practice.
In a particularly poignant moment in 2019, Kultida was there as Tiger clinched his fifth Masters title at Augusta National, surrounded by family and the echo of her encouragement. Having moved to a modern home in Orange County after her husband’s passing in 2006, she eventually followed Tiger to South Florida, continuing to be an indomitable presence in his life.
In a 2017 interview, Tiger jokingly admitted that, despite the passage of time, he remained somewhat in awe—and fear—of his mother’s formidable nature. “My mum’s still here and I’m still deathly afraid of her. She’s a very tough, tough old lady, very demanding. I love her so much, but she was tough.”
Kultida Woods’ indelible legacy and inexhaustible support are forever sewn into the fabric of Tiger’s prolific career. As the world watches Tiger navigate this profound personal loss, we’re reminded that his story is not just about sports triumphs but also about the unfaltering strength and influence of the woman who was his “force of nature.”
Wow, what an amazing woman Kultida was! It’s clear she was a major influence on Tiger’s success.
No doubt about it! But let’s not forget Earl’s role too. He was the one who introduced Tiger to the sport.
True, but Kultida’s role in instilling discipline and determination should not be underestimated.
Absolutely! The red shirts and tiger head cover tradition are definitely iconic parts of Tiger’s story.
Right? Those traditions are such a beautiful nod to his roots!
It’s touching to see how much Tiger adored his mum. That’s true love and respect right there!
In some cultures, the relationship between a mother and her child is honored deeply, hence Tiger’s reverence makes sense.
Yes, and it’s especially true in Asian cultures. Family ties are incredibly strong!
I’m skeptical. Behind every great man is often a woman, sure, but isn’t this just gilding Tiger’s PR?
If we’re honest, Tiger’s career was built on both parents’ shoulders. Can’t deny that.
Exactly! His parents both played such critical roles but in different ways.
Yeah, Earl with the golf skills, Kultida with the mental toughness.
I wonder if Tiger will change anything about his routines after her death—like the red shirt.
I doubt he will. Those routines seem deeply personal and meaningful for him.
You may be right. It’s a part of his legacy now.
This is just a PR move to boost his image. The real question is, was Kultida really that involved?
Given the details of her involvement, it’s hard to argue she wasn’t important. The tiger head covers are a testament to that!
Small gestures aside, show me the proof of day-to-day impact!
Her story is truly inspiring—coming from Thailand and managing a life in a new country while molding a superstar.
Totally agree! It takes a special kind of resilience to do what she did.
The multicultural aspect of Tiger’s upbringing is often overlooked. Kudos to Kultida for maintaining that connection to his Thai roots.
Indeed, it’s often the multicultural perspective that shapes unique worldviews, such as Tiger’s.
Such a sad time for Tiger, but he will bounce back—he’s done it before.
For sure, Tiger has always shown resilience. He’s an example for us all.
I’m just amazed by how grounded Tiger remained despite international fame. Kultida clearly did something right.
Funny how Trump jumped into this conversation. Is there a way he won’t involve himself?
Well, he does have a history with Tiger, so maybe it’s not completely out of the blue.
And let’s not make this about politics, please.
Reading about Tiger’s mum makes me appreciate my own parents more. They support me tirelessly in my sports pursuits.
Imagine Tiger without his mom—we might have had a totally different story!
Exactly, people often underestimate how family shape our lives.