Elin Nordegren is out of Tiger Woods’ life. Swing coach Sean Foley is in.
Is it possible that Woods’ opening-round 65 in the Barclays is as simple as that?
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After shooting his best round in a PGA tournament in nearly a year, Woods sounded positively giddy talking to Steve Sands of the Golf Channel.
When asked whether his 6-under-par performance was his best this season, Woods said: “Absolutely. It’s not even close.”
Later, according to ESPNNewYork.com, Woods said his pursuit of Jack Nicklaus’ record of 18 major championships was full on, saying “absolutely” when he was asked whether he believes he will break the mark.
Amazing what one good round can do for his confidence.
Shooting 65 was never cause for celebration for Woods. He fired 65 or better nine times in 2009. But this was the best score Woods has produced since shooting 62 at the BMW Championship in September.
Two sessions last week in Orlando, Fla., with Foley and another before Thursday’s round gave Woods renewed confidence in his ball-striking ability.
“It’s exciting to hit the ball flush like this again,” Woods said. “It’s something I’ve been missing all year. It felt good to hit the ball and shape it both ways and really hit it through the wind.”
Woods also benefited from an unusually early starting time, teeing off in the first group at 7:10 a.m. and giving him a chance to play a softer course and smooth greens. Friday will be different; he starts at 12:10 p.m.
