Charlie Woods’ week at TPC Sawgrass has been another reminder that golf’s learning curve can be a brutal one, even for the son of Tiger.
The 16-year-old shot a four-over 76 in Friday’s opening round of the Junior Players Championship, putting himself in a hole before adding a three-over 75 on Saturday. That left him at seven-over through 36 holes, sitting in a tie for 43rd in the 77-player field.
A Tough Card With One Bright Spot
For the most part, Woods kept things tidy. But two costly double bogeys — one at the par-four second and another at the 14th — wrecked what could have been a steady round. His lone highlight came at the 535-yard par-five 15th, where he reached the green in two and rolled in his birdie putt.
Beyond that, birdie chances didn’t materialize often enough to make up for the mistakes.
Famous Names, Different Struggles
Charlie isn’t the only recognizable name in the field. Cameron Kuchar, son of longtime PGA Tour winner Matt Kuchar, has also struggled, finishing the second round in a tie for 65th.
On the other end of the spectrum, 16-year-old Miles Russell has shown exactly why he’s considered one of the brightest young talents in the game. Russell opened up a two-shot lead with 18 holes left to play. His résumé already includes history as the youngest player ever to make a Korn Ferry Tour cut last December, sponsor exemptions into two PGA Tour events, and the distinction of being the youngest AJGA Player of the Year — breaking Tiger Woods’ record.
Perspective for Charlie
The week is more about Charlie Woods gaining experience. He is competing in one of junior golf’s top events at one of the sport’s most iconic courses. The birdie at 15 showed his ability to string shots together, but the double bogeys serve as reminders that development takes time.
With one round left, Charlie has a chance to post a solid finish and gather more competitive reps that will only add to his growth. The spotlight he carries isn’t going away. Every step he takes on courses like Sawgrass will continue to draw eyes.
