Summary
Highlights
Tiger's early morning preparation for the resumed second round highlighted his dedication. A tense moment arose on the 18th hole when his caddie, Steve Williams, realized Tiger only had one golf ball left after misplacing others and giving one away. Despite the risk of disqualification and Williams's advice to play it safe, Tiger insisted on hitting a driver, showcasing his unwavering confidence and resolve, ultimately avoiding disaster.
Pebble Beach's unpredictable weather, transitioning from calm to windy conditions, tested the players in the third round. Tiger faced his first major challenge on the third hole, enduring a triple bogey after struggling out of a buried lie in the bunker. However, he quickly recovered, including an incredible recovery shot from a difficult lie on the sixth hole, demonstrating his creative problem-solving and athletic ability. He ended the third round with an 10-shot lead, setting an all-time record for a 54-hole lead at a U.S. Open.
The 2000 U.S. Open at Pebble Beach saw Tiger Woods deliver the most dominating performance in major championship history, described as near perfection over four rounds. It highlighted the challenges of the U.S. Open and the prestige of winning at Pebble Beach, which is considered a national golf treasure.
The 2000 U.S. Open was highly anticipated, marking the 100th anniversary and featuring Jack Nicklaus's final U.S. Open. All eyes were on Tiger Woods, who had already achieved significant milestones. In the first round, played on a surprisingly receptive course, Tiger shot a remarkable 65, leading by one shot and setting the lowest round in competition at Pebble Beach. Johnny Miller's bold prediction of Tiger breaking all U.S. Open records added to the excitement.
The second day brought Jack Nicklaus's emotional farewell, marking his 44th and final U.S. Open. Tiger, amidst a late starting time due to fog, continued his exceptional play on a tougher course. A memorable moment occurred on the sixth hole, where Tiger hit an incredible 7-iron from the rough, showcasing his fearless approach and extraordinary skill, as described by Roger Maltbie as 'not a fair fight'. He finished the second round by sinking a 35-foot putt in the dark, extending his lead and setting an electric tone for the tournament.
Entering the final round with a dominant 10-shot lead, Tiger's performance transcended mere competition; it became a quest for perfection and record-breaking. Despite the outcome seemingly decided, Tiger's motivation was to play a bogey-free round, showcasing his internal drive for excellence. He continued to make extraordinary shots and putts, extending his lead further and making history.
Approaching the 18th hole, Tiger needed a birdie to set the all-time scoring record at a U.S. Open. Though he ultimately didn't make the birdie putt, his 15-shot victory margin was a new record for any major championship, eclipsing a record from 1862. His joy and relief were evident as he walked up the 18th, culminating years of hard work. Commentators hailed his performance as possibly the greatest in sports history, comparing it to monumental athletic achievements, solidifying his legacy as golf's greatest.