Tiger Woods marks 30 years since turning pro

Tiger Woods’ ascent was built on an extraordinary amateur run, including six Junior World titles and back-to-back US Amateur wins, followed by turning professional in 1996 after aligning with coach Butch Harmon. He rapidly dazzled on the pro circuit, collecting two PGA Tour titles in his first season and earning his first major at the 1997 Masters, becoming world No. 1 within a year of turning pro. The 1997 Masters is often cited as one of the greatest major victories in golf history, signaling a transformative era for the sport. A defining moment came at the 2005 Masters with a gravity-defying chip on the 16th hole that swung the tournament in his favor and solidified his legendary status. After enduring injuries and surgeries, Woods made a dramatic comeback by winning the 2018 Tour Championship, extending his tally to 80 PGA Tour wins. Collectively, these milestones illustrate how Woods reshaped golf and cemented himself as one of the game's most recognizable and enduring champions.