Eldrick Tont "Tiger" Woods, born on December 30, 1975, in Cypress, California, is an American professional golfer who is widely regarded as one of the greatest athletes in the sport's history. With a career that spans more than two decades, Woods has achieved remarkable milestones, including being tied for first in PGA Tour wins and second in men's major championships. His influence transcends golf, making him one of the most recognizable and celebrated sports figures globally.

Woods was introduced to golf at a very young age by his father, Earl Woods, who recognized his son's prodigious talent early on. He displayed exceptional skills in junior and amateur tournaments, eventually turning professional in 1996 at the age of 20. His first major breakthrough came in 1997 when he won the prestigious Masters Tournament by an astonishing 12 strokes, thus marking the beginning of a dominant era in golf. Just months after turning pro, Woods reached the world number one ranking for the first time in June 1997, a position he would hold for a record 683 weeks over his career.

Throughout the late 1990s and early 2000s, Woods' prowess on the golf course was unparalleled. He won 13 major championships between 1997 and 2008, including an impressive stretch where he claimed seven out of eleven majors from 1999 to 2002. His achievements during this time earned him the title of AP Athlete of the Decade, and he became the face of golf for millions around the world. Woods' style, charisma, and exceptional talent not only elevated his sport but also broadened its appeal to a diverse audience.

However, the next chapter of Woods's life was marked by personal and professional challenges. In December 2009, he took a hiatus from golf to address marital issues with his then-wife, Elin Nordegren, after admitting to multiple infidelities. The couple divorced in August 2010, and Woods faced a significant decline in his performance and ranking, even falling to number 58 in the world in November 2011. Despite these setbacks, he managed to regain his form, reaching number one again between March 2013 and May 2014.

Woods' career was further complicated by injuries, leading to four back surgeries between 2014 and 2017. His struggles with health saw him compete in only one tournament between August 2015 and January 2018, and he dropped off the list of the world’s top 1,000 golfers. Nevertheless, Woods made a remarkable comeback when he won the Tour Championship in September 2018, his first tournament victory in five years, followed by a triumphant win at the 2019 Masters Tournament, marking his first major win in over a decade.

Over the course of his career, Woods has set numerous records, including being the youngest player to achieve a career Grand Slam and the only golfer besides Jack Nicklaus to accomplish it three times. He has won a total of 15 major championships, trailing only Nicklaus, and is tied for the most PGA Tour titles with Sam Snead, boasting 82 wins. His accolades also include being awarded the PGA Player of the Year a record 11 times and receiving the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2019.

In February 2021, Woods faced a serious setback following a single-car accident that resulted in multiple leg fractures. This incident led to surgery and a lengthy recovery process. As of 2022, Woods made his return to the PGA Tour at the Masters Tournament, indicating his enduring spirit and passion for the game. Despite acknowledging that his full-time career is likely over, he remains active in the sport, participating in select events.

With a net worth estimated at $1.3 billion as of June 2025, Woods has not only redefined success in golf but has also become a significant figure in sports business and culture. His journey through triumphs and tribulations continues to inspire many, solidifying his legacy as an iconic figure in the world of sports.