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‘I didn’t want to go’ LIV star who had Rory McIlroy as groomsman explains 11th hour Irish Open snub

Former Irish Open winner Sergio Garcia will be absent from the K Club this week as he comes to terms with his omission from the Ryder Cup squad. Garcia, who made the switch to LIV golf in 2023, hasn’t appeared in the Ryder Cup since 2021 but following an impressive campaign on the breakaway circuit, the Spaniard was optimistic he had earned his place in captain Luke Donald’s thinking.

However, the 2017 Masters victor saw Donald stick with virtually the same lineup from 2023, with only Rasmus Hojgaard stepping in for his twin brother Nicolai in the sole alteration to the team that triumphed in Rome two years prior.

I gained a friend back,' says Sergio Garcia after rekindling with Rory  McIlroy | The Straits Times

READ: Charlie Woods receives emotional support from his mother after his

Speaking to Golf Magic in an interview released this week, 1999 Irish Open winner Garcia revealed he chose not to compete in Kildare this week following his disappointment at missing out on a captain’s selection.

“I felt like I was so looking forward to being a part of that team, and so I felt like mentally, it was kind of tough,” Garcia said, reports the Irish Mirror.

“I didn’t want to go there and not be fully engaged in the tournament and stuff, so I just decided to take a little bit of time off and spend it with the family. Do a couple of things outside of golf and just kind of reboot a little bit, recharge the batteries.”

Garcia and McIlroy were once good friends with McIlroy even taking the role of groomsman at Garcia’s wedding.

Garcia’s move to LIV and McIlroy’s criticism of the Saudi-backed breakaway tour saw that relationship collapse. However, amid talks of a merger, Garcia said of Rory ‘We talked and had a great conversation.”

Regarding the Spaniard’s conversation with Donald breaking the news of his non-selection, Garcia commented: “The call with Luke was fine. Not the call I wanted, obviously, but the conversation was fine.

“Now, the only thing I can do is support the team from home. It’s as simple as that. I’ll be watching and cheering on the European team.”

Although Garcia won’t be teeing off at Bethpage Black next month, two of his LIV colleagues will be flying the flag for Europe. Tyrrell Hatton has secured automatic qualification, while fellow defector Jon Rahm was handed a wildcard pick by Donald.

They’ll be joining forces with the likes of Rory McIlroy, Shane Lowry and Justin Rose as Europe aims to clinch victory on American soil for the first time since 2014.

Before that, there’s the small matter of the Amgen Irish Open to contend with. The tournament kicks off on Sunday, with a host of star-studded pairings set to dazzle the K Club.

And who knows, with McIlroy, Lowry, Padraig Harrington and Seamus Power all in contention, we might just see a local champion crowned this week.

Charlie Woods receives emotional support from his mother Elin Nordegren after his father Tiger failed to support him in his latest performance

Charlie Woods, the young rising star in the junior golf world and son of legend Tiger Woods, recently delivered an impressive performance, but noticeably absent was the vocal support from his father.

Instead, it was Elin Nordegren, Charlie’s mother and Tiger’s ex-wife, who provided the steady emotional backing he needed.

Tiger Woods and Elin Nordegren Spotted at Son Charlie's Golf Tournament

READ: Elin Nordegren’s New Chapter Influenced Sam Woods After

The gaping void left by Tiger’s quietness was filled by Elin, reminding everyone of the invaluable strength parental presence can bring, especially in moments of pressure.

Elin’s supportive role was particularly notable during a recent key match where Charlie nearly clinched a top spot but fell just short. Rather than lingering on the disappointment, she was there-calm, composed, and unwavering in her encouragement.

For Charlie, who has been navigating both the pressures of youth competition and the weight of a famous surname, his mother’s presence has been a quiet anchor.

The power of maternal support

Elin Nordegren’s dedication has become a testament to her character. While Tiger is often focused on his own professional comebacks and personal health, Elin has seamlessly stepped into the supportive role for her children.

Her presence reflects deliberate co-parenting choices rooted in love and resilience-even in the spotlight.

In recent times, Elin has been spotted consistently at Charlie’s events, quietly watching his swing, celebrating his shots, and embracing him after rounds.

It is no small detail that she attended in solid support when Tiger did not-especially in a moment when Charlie could’ve used his father’s encouragement most.

For aspiring young athletes, the visible embrace of a parent-or absence thereof-carries weight. Elin’s unwavering presence illustrates that success in sports isn’t just built on skill or lineage; it’s nurtured through steadfast emotional support.

Charlie’s development isn’t solely shaped by the legacy of his father but also by the encouraging force standing beside him every step of the way.

As Charlie continues to grow his game, the emotional quadrant formed by his supportive mother and sister remains his grounding force-whether his father’s words echo on the sidelines or not.

Tiger’s Son Charlie Woods  Drops Striking Remarks After Marking Landmark Victory as Tiger’s Son

Charlie Woods, the teenage son of golf legend Tiger, is once again earning widespread praise following his response after a big win this week. And the rising talent continues to convince fans he may be destined to follow in his father’s footsteps after demonstrating an elite mindset.

The 16-year-old landed his first Amateur Junior Golf Association (AJGA) title on Wednesday. Charlie topped the leaderboard at the Team TaylorMade Invitational after carding a third-round 66 to finish at 15-under and comfortably clear of his competition.

That result is being hailed as the best performance of Woods Jr’s career thus far. But it’s not just his qualities on the course that are impressing fans after his post-match comments drew comparisons with his famous father.

“I didn’t look at the leaderboard once today,” said the youngster after his crowning moment, per The Mirror US. “On the fairway after hitting the green on 18, he’s [Woods’ caddie] like, ‘you make par here, you’re going to be fine.'”

READ MORE : “Surprised!” Tiger Woods Confirms Teen Daughter Sam’s Hidden

Those words demonstrate the kind of character that often lights the path to greatness. The ability to focus on one’s own game, regardless of how others are performing around you, is a rare quality but illustrates an individual confident in their ability to shape their own destiny.

Tiger woods

Woods’ skills certainly paid off at the Black Course at Streamsong Resort in his home state of Florida. And the competition was fierce, with fellow junior talents like Miles Russell, Phillip Dunham and Luke Colton all in the field.

The young golf prodigy from Orlando bounced back with aplomb after missing out on US Open qualifying earlier in May. Resilience is key in the game of golf, and Woods Jr already appears to have learnt a lesson in dusting oneself down for the next challenge.

For the world’s most closely observed junior golfer, the trajectory can only go up. Following his victory, Woods Jr was brimming with confidence and not content just to celebrate as he looked to build on his success.

“Being able to say to myself that I won an absolutely amazing event and to say I performed under some high-pressure situations is just huge going forward,” he added. “I haven’t been able to say that I have done that, and now that I can, it is just a big thing for my mental game going forward.”

RELATED NEWS : “The King Roars Again: Tiger Woods Seizes Leadership Role in

Launching his campaign with promise, Woods delivered an initial two-under-par 70 in Monday’s round. But it was his subsequent rounds of 65 and 66 that truly put the competition on notice.

Tiger woods

His first round showed both brilliance and flaws with eight birdies, an eagle, alongside bogeys and a solitary triple bogey. But the up-and-coming star adapted quickly as the action progressed at Streamsong.

Carrying the Woods name might set the bar high, but Tiger’s son is showing his mettle and maturing gracefully in a high-pressure environment. That comes as part and parcel of his legacy, but he is weathering the challenge in impressive fashion.

This year essentially serves as an audition for the legacy star, with colleges able to kick-start their recruitment drive for him this summer. And following a triumphant win in Florida, it appears he won’t be lacking attention.

“Surprised!” Tiger Woods Confirms Teen Daughter Sam’s Hidden Talent in an Unexpected Sport”

While Tiger Woods has been all over the news for his relationship with Donald Trump Jr’s ex-wife Vanessa Trump, he’s making news for another reason. Or rather, his sporty mini-me daughter, Sam, is making headlines! While you may think that Sam is making headlines for golf, she’s actually a soccer star!

Last week, Woods spoke with the press in Atlanta while attending a TGL event, confirming that while his daughter Sam’s high school sports career is over, she went out with a bang. She led her school team, the Benjamin School Buccaneers, to victory as the first state championship in Benjamin Girls soccer history. (They won 1-0 victory over the Episcopal School of Jacksonville.)

“The core group of girls that were on that team have been together since they were six,” he said about his senior defender daughter via Hello. “To be able to end her high school career like that and to go on as a state champion is pretty cool.”

And it seems that while her high school career may be done, she’s just getting started since she’ll be going to Stanford in the fall.

READ MORE : “Next Tiger Woods in the Making: Charlie Woods Delivers Eye-

Charlie Woods

For those who don’t know, Woods and his ex-wife, Elin Nordegren, welcomed two children together during their time together: a daughter named Sam Alexis Woods, born in 2007, and a son named Charlie Axel Woods, born in 2009.

Now, for those wondering why Sam decided to go for soccer instead of golf, Woods actually shone some light on that in 2024.

In a rare live interview with the Today show via People, he revealed Sam has a “negative connotation” to golf. “You know, hey, when she was growing up, golf took daddy away from her,” he said. “I had to pack and I had to leave and I would be gone for weeks and there was a negative connotation to it.”

“The King Roars Again: Tiger Woods Seizes Leadership Role in PGA Tour Power Shift”

After a long break due to injuries and the effects of aging, Tiger Woods reappears in a different arena: the management and future of the PGA Tour. During the staff-wide meeting held on August 20, 2025, Brian Rolapp introduced a new initiative inspired by the NFL, related to a voluntary retirement program.

Woods, who heads the newly formed Future Competition Committee, spoke to explain his role and support the new CEO’s plan. This committee includes prominent figures such as Patrick Cantlay, Adam Scott, Camilo Villegas, Maverick McNealy, and Keith Mitchell, along with three Tour officials. Its goal is to conduct a “holistic review” of the competitive structure and shape the next era of professional golf.

Concern within the PGA Tour

Rolapp’s proposal aims to offer between 5% and 10% of the PGA Tour’s 1,300 employees an early retirement package, following a model previously applied in the NFL. In that case, 60 workers accepted the offer, receiving three weeks of pay for each year of service. Now, speculation suggests the same formula will be replicated in golf.

READ MORE : “Next Tiger Woods in the Making: Charlie Woods Delivers Eye-

Although presented as an opportunity, this move has sparked uncertainty. Industry media have pointed out that voluntary retirement could be just the prelude to mandatory layoffs, something that already happened in 2023 with the PGA of America.

Charlie Woods

Mixed opinions on Brian Rolapp and his strategy

Since taking over as CEO, Brian Rolapp has been described as a determined leader willing to make deep changes. Todd Lewis, a Golf Channel journalist, noted that he appeared “confident and comfortable, ready to act immediately.” Meanwhile, Rex Hoggard warned that some adjustments might not be popular among players or fans, although Rolapp seems committed to doing what he believes is right.

In addition to this program, Rolapp has proposed a $1.5 billion investment from Strategic Sports Group to strengthen the tour and create more attractive events featuring top stars.

Tiger Woods’ direct involvement in decision-making lends legitimacy to Rolapp’s project, but also adds pressure to the leadership. While the new committee seeks to transform the competitive model, labor uncertainty and potential restructuring have raised alarms.

Woods’ return off the course, supporting key initiatives for the Tour’s future, marks a new chapter for professional golf. However, the big question remains: will this move be a growth opportunity or a threat to PGA Tour employees?

“Next Tiger Woods in the Making: Charlie Woods Delivers Eye-Catching Start in Junior Players Championship”

Charlie Woods is more than a few strokes behind the pace after his first round at the 2025 Junior Players Championship at TPC Sawgrass in Ponte Vedre Beach.

Woods, a junior at the Benjamin School and the son of legendary golfer Tiger Woods, shot 4-over 76 in the first round of the Junior Players Championship on Aug. 29.

Teeing off in the middle of the morning, Woods went 4 over on the front nine, shooting a 40 that came with a bogey-bogey start and only one birdie and three pars. He fared better after the turn, making only two bogeys and shooting a 36 on the back nine that included dropping a shot on the 18th.

Woods is seven shots off the lead, held in the clubhouse by Jacksonville Beach native Miles Russell, who shot a 4-under 68 in his first round. He is tied with Nicholas Logis, who also shot a 68, atop the leaderboard.

Since 2007, the best male amateurs ages 19 and under have played at the home of the Players Championship on the PGA Tour. Russell won the event back in 2023 when he was 14, the youngest winner ever.

“Tiger Wood Discloses Stance on PGA Tour’s Retirement Program Sparks Intrigue as Details Finally Emerge”

It has been more than a year since Tiger Woods last competed professionally at the 2024 Open Championship. The 15-time major winner has no immediate plans to return to the sport anytime soon. However, Tiger has taken on a new role in the PGA Tour, and it didn’t take him long to share his insight.

Last week, the PGA Tour announced a new Future Competition Committee. Its main objective is to enhance fan engagement and create a stronger connection between the regular season and the postseason. The committee will be led by none other than Tiger Woods. Now, Woods has made his feelings clear on another PGA Tour proposal.

On Thursday morning, PGA Tour conducted an all-staff meeting that included new CEO Brian Rolapp. All staff members were informed about a new voluntary program. As per Sports Business Journal’s Josh Carpenter, the package will be available to between 5-10% of the tour’s total staff. The estimated number is around 1,300 employees globally.

READ MORE : Junior Ryder Cup Decision for Charlie Woods Unveiled After

One of the goals of the proposed plan is to reallocate the PGA Tour’s resources so it can achieve its objectives. On his one-month anniversary as the new PGA Tour CEO, Rolapp has remained firm in his stance to bring change to the Tour. Woods, who was in attendance, made his position clear by backing the new program, according to those present at the meeting.

Charlie Woods

Voluntary retirement programs may be new to the PGA Tour; however, the NFL offered similar packages to 200 employees last year. Rolapp also addressed Woods’ new Future Competitions Committee. It’s fair to say Woods is pleased with the new CEO’s appointment. As Rolapp pushes to implement significant changes, one of the biggest talking points remains the future of the PGA Tour’s relationship with LIV Golf.

Rolapp previously shared that he has yet to meet with the Public Investment Fund (PIF) to discuss the partnership. Meanwhile, Tiger has much more to focus on in his personal life, as rumors continue to escalate about his potential wedding to Vanessa Trump. Woods has yet to provide any update on his return to professional golf, despite TGL (TMRW Golf League) announcing a new season.

Rory McIlroy reveals he was left in tears during Tour Championship PGA Tour season finale – ‘They made me cry again’

GRAND SLAM champions Rory McIlroy has revealed he was left in tears during the PGA Tour season final at East Lake.

The Holywood hotshot had an average week at the Tour Championship, finishing 23rd alongside Maverick McNealy from the 30-strong field.

He scooped McIlroy pocketed $395,000 for his efforts during the lucrative tournament in Georgia.

JUST IN: Tiger Woods’ Ex Elin Nordegren ‘Has Her Reservations’ About

Tommy Fleetwood FINALLY won on the PGA Tour – the weekend’s Tour Championship was the Englishman’s 164th effort stateside with the serial runner-up managing to hold his nerve and finish top the leaderboard.

Speaking after the final event of the tour’s season, McIlroy paid homage to Ryder Cup pal Fleetwood – but did shed light into some other happenings earlier in the week.

World number two McIlroy revealed he had a number of remote duties to complete for Masters chairman Fred Ridley.

The Down ace admitted the demands of being Masters champion are never far away after a reminder at East Lake brought him back to his emotional triumph Augusta.

Speaking after his second round at the Tour Championship, McIlroy revealed he had to fulfil commitments for Augusta National earlier in the week – including slipping on the green jacket once again.

And it brought him to tears, once again.

Speak to the media at East Lake, he said: “I did, I actually did a couple of things for Augusta National this week. I didn’t go there, but there’s a couple of things I had to do.

“I had the green jacket on for a few hours on Wednesday doing something. So it was nice to reminisce. They made me cry again.”

McIlroy, who completed the career Grand Slam at Augusta back in April, has banked an eye-watering $16,992,418 (€15.8m) from just 16 events on tour this season.

He claimed three wins and eight top-10 finishes, underlining his class as one of the game’s most consistent performers.

The Down ace also missed just one cut all season – and his season is far from over with the DP World Tour’s end-of-season run-in – and the Ryder Cup on the horizon.

Tiger Woods’ Ex Elin Nordegren ‘Has Her Reservations’ About Golf Pro’s Romance With Vanessa Trump

Links legend Tiger Woods is blissfully happy with new love Vanessa Trump, but it’s causing tension between him and his ex-wife, Elin Nordegren, sources tell the National Enquirer.

The exes, who divorced in 2010 amid a headline-making sex scandal after he got busted cheating with multiple women, have maintained a cordial relationship over the years. As Enquirer readers know, the golfing great, 49, still often turns to his 45-year-old Swedish-born former wife for advice and support.

 <span class="wp-caption-text">Getty Images</span>
Getty Images

“She and Tiger talk a lot and are friendly, and she does have some sway with him as the mother of his children,” daughter Sam Alexis, 18, and son Charlie, 16, a source says.

But then Tiger began dating Vanessa, 47, the ex-wife of Donald Trump Jr., the president’s eldest son, last November. Insiders report that Tiger is madly in love with the mother of five and seems determined to marry her.

 <span class="wp-caption-text">Instagram/Tiger Woods</span>
Instagram/Tiger Woods

That has had Elin keeping her distance.

“She has her reservations about this relationship and she can’t exactly hide her disdain over the whole thing,” an insider says. “She thought it was a weird match from the start, and for him to be getting so serious and moving Vanessa into his home so soon is a red flag.”

Model turned mental health counselor Nordegren is also well aware that all of Tiger’s relationships since their split have fizzled.

“She thinks he needs to slow down,” the source shares. “For all their troubles, she still cares for Tiger and would hate to see him hurt.”

 <span class="wp-caption-text">Instagram/Tiger Woods</span>
Instagram/Tiger Woods

According to our insider, “she doesn’t want to tell him what to do, but she is encouraging him to take it slow and get to know Vanessa before making such a serious commitment.”

“It doesn’t look like he’s listening, however, and that’s got to be distressing for Elin,” the insider says.

A  New Era Legacy “Charlie and Sam Woods Carrying The Tiger’s Legacy Into a New Era”

The name Woods has long been synonymous with greatness in the world of golf. For decades, Tiger Woods not only dominated the sport but also reshaped it with his charisma, intensity, and unparalleled achievements. Today, as Tiger transitions from being the centerpiece of golf to a mentor and father, the spotlight is gradually shifting toward his two children—Charlie Axel Woods and Sam Alexis Woods.

While the public has often focused more on Charlie due to his competitive presence on the golf course, his sister Sam Alexis has also drawn attention as a poised and supportive figure in the Woods family story. Together, they represent the next chapter of a sporting dynasty that continues to fascinate fans around the world.

Charlie Woods: The Prodigy in Motion

Charlie Woods, born in 2009, has already begun to carve out his own identity in the golfing world. From the moment he stepped onto the course alongside his father at the PNC Championship, fans saw flashes of the legendary Woods’ swagger. His fluid swing, calm demeanor, and competitive edge quickly made headlines.

Charlie Woods

In recent years, Charlie has taken his game more seriously, competing in junior tournaments and showing resilience under pressure. At the Junior PGA Championship in Indiana, he nearly secured a spot on the Junior Ryder Cup team, falling just short but proving he belonged among the nation’s elite young talents.

Observers can’t help but notice how much of Tiger’s influence is embedded in Charlie’s game—his powerful drive, calculated decision-making, and steely focus are hallmarks of the Woods legacy. Yet, Charlie isn’t just a reflection of his father; he’s building his own narrative. His journey is one of balancing the immense expectations of being Tiger’s son while developing his unique personality and competitive style.

Sam Alexis Woods: The Silent Strength of the Woods Family

While Charlie captures headlines with his golf game, his older sister Sam Alexis Woods has earned admiration in a quieter but equally significant way. Born in 2007, Sam has grown up in the shadow of global fame, yet she has carried herself with remarkable grace.

Sam Alexis Woods

Though she doesn’t play golf competitively, Sam has been a steady and visible presence at her father’s most iconic moments. She was there when Tiger made his historic comeback to win the 2019 Masters, and more recently, she delivered an emotional speech when Tiger was inducted into the World Golf Hall of Fame. Her composure and heartfelt words not only moved her father but also showcased her maturity and strength.

Sam represents the emotional anchor of the family. While Charlie pushes forward on the course, Sam embodies the dignity, resilience, and quiet confidence that remind fans of Tiger’s humanity beyond the game.