In fast, firm conditions not unlike those that will test the field in next week's U.S. Open at Pinehurst No. 2, Woods put on a display of touch and competitive genius reminiscent of the magical seven-month stretch that lasted from his third straight U.S. Amateur victory in August 1996 to his first green jacket. With his Memorial triumph he became the second-youngest player to win nine times on the Tour, behind Horton Smith, and the only multiple winner this year besides Duval. After hitting a sand wedge approach over the green at the devilish 360-yard 14th, he flubbed a flop shot from high rough five yards off the green, the ball traveling less than two yards before sinking back into the grass. No sooner had Nicklaus informed the television audience that Woods was staring squarely at a 6 and the loss of his one-stroke lead than Woods hit a chip shot that trickled some 20 feet before falling into the hole. Certainly Singh was singed.
Tiger has skill and courage.
Today the volume was turned down a bit. Woods is intent on doing the same to his critics. He has led Tour events after 54 holes on seven occasions and has won six. It was just a perfect shot. Just as important, Woods's play at Muirfield Village supported his claim that returning to the less technical approach to putting of his amateur days has freed him on the greens.