Golf legend Tiger Woods announced on Tuesday, February 4, that his beloved mother, Kultida Woods, has passed away at the age of 81. "It is with heartfelt sadness that I want to share that my dear mother, Kultida Woods, passed away early this morning. My mom was a force of nature all her own, her spirit was simply undeniable," Woods, 49, shared in an emotional statement on social media.
Reflecting on her support, Woods continued, "She was quick with the needle and a laugh. She was my biggest fan, greatest supporter. Without her, none of my personal achievements would have been possible. She was loved by so many, but especially by her two grandchildren, Sam and Charlie. Thank you all for your support, prayers, and privacy at this difficult time for me and my family. Love you, Mom."
Kultida Woods, originally from Thailand, was married to Tiger's father, Earl Woods, for 37 years until his passing in May 2006. While Earl, a former Green Beret, played a significant role in Tiger's life and golf career, Tiger credited his mother as the "enforcer" in their household.
"My dad may have been in the Special Forces, but I was never afraid of him," Tiger told USA Today. "My mom's still here and I'm still deathly afraid of her. She's a very tough, tough old lady, very demanding. … I love her so much, but she was tough."
Despite her toughness, Kultida Woods was Tiger's most steadfast supporter, always present at his major career milestones. In 2022, she joined her grandchildren, Sam Alexis and Charlie Axel, to celebrate Tiger's induction into the World Golf Hall of Fame. She was often seen on the golf course cheering for her son, recognizable by her signature oversized black glasses and visor.
Kultida also played a crucial role in shaping one of Tiger's most iconic traditions—wearing a red shirt on Sundays. She believed red was a powerful color that would bring him success. Though Tiger initially doubted her advice, a few losses while wearing blue during his junior golf days convinced him otherwise.
"[I] switched to red, and I went on a hot streak. And, well, I kept it," he once recalled.
In 2009, he reaffirmed his mother's wisdom on his website, writing, "You should always listen to your mom."
Tiger Woods tributes his mother, Kutilda, in an emotional speech
During the summer of 2024, Woods accepted the USGA’s Bob Jones Award, where he gave a touching speech focused on family. He attended the event supported by his mother, Kutilda, and his children. Woods’ award is the highest honor provided by the Professional Golfers’ Association of America. “My mom doesn’t get enough credit,” Woods said nearing the end of the speech. “They all thought that it was me and dad on the road, which it was, but mom was at home. If you don’t know, mom has been there my entire life; she’s always been there through thick and thin.”
Woods said he accepted the honor “in humbleness” and “unbelievable regard” for the previous recipients. He added, “But I also accept it for my mommy too.” He shared that his mother’s support was one of the main forces behind all of his achievements. “I didn’t do this alone, I had the greatest rock that any child could possibly have - my mom. Thank you, mommy.”