Golf icon Tiger Woods recently discussed how the attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump disrupted his preparation for the Open Championship. During an interview, Woods shared that the incident led to sleepless nights and adversely impacted his concentration on the competition.
The incident unfolded in 2024 when a man was apprehended after attempting to take Trump’s life. The news of this attempt greatly troubled Woods, given his close ties with Trump.
Woods disclosed that the unsettling news made it difficult for him to maintain focus during the Open Championship, occurring just a few days post-attempt. He was not only losing sleep but was also constantly worried about Trump’s well-being.
Even though Woods managed to conclude the tournament at a commendable position, he acknowledged that the incident had a noticeable effect on his performance.
Historically, Woods has publicly commended Trump, lauding his leadership and entrepreneurial skills. Their relationship, which has strengthened over the years, includes Trump presenting Woods with the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2019.
Despite the grave nature of the assassination attempt, Trump continues to be an active figure in American political life. Woods’ statements highlight the profound effect political affairs can have even on the most focused athletes.
Woods’ candidness about the effects of the assassination attempt on his gameplay illustrates his integrity and commitment to his sport. Despite numerous challenges, he remains focused on delivering his best in every game.
Ultimately, the experiences of Woods are a reminder that athletes are subject to the same societal influences as everyone else. While they might appear resilient and perform exceptionally under pressure, global events can significantly affect them just like any other individual.
