ever though Scottie Scheffler had a tremendous final round performance at the 2024 Masters, it would be difficult to find a better Sunday moment than something that occurred at Augusta National before the World No. 1 ever took the green.
Naturally, we’re referring to the heartfelt exchange between former World No. 1 Tiger Woods and Verne Lundquist on the 16th hole. It was a fitting location given that Woods made what is perhaps his most famous shot and Lundquist made his most famous call there in 2005.
Nevertheless, Woods paused to shake hands and converse with the renowned CBS commentator who was hosting his 40th and last Masters broadcast later that day as he made his way to the 17th tee on Sunday. Here is a look at it in case you happened to miss it:
Excellent. What then did the two say to one other? Lundquist spoke with Charles Barkley and Ernie Johnson of TNT Sports on the most recent The Steam Room podcast episode.
He was playing 14 at the moment and was having a terrible day when I ventured down to 16. Five over and finished the event dead last, according to Lundquist. “But even though he was five over, he left the green at sixteen, and I simply said, ‘Tiger, thank you,'” as he got closer. We spoke while he reached over to shake my hand. To be quite honest, I can’t recall what we said other than that I thanked him for his good comments and he said, “We’re going to be tied at the hip forever because of that shot and because of what I said.”
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Verne, we understand. Things move so quickly that it’s difficult to recall every detail. It’s okay, you’re eighty-three, too. But moments later, Verne remembered something else quite clearly that would truly stick with him.
Lundquist went on, “The thing I most treasure about it.” I was still standing beneath the tree when he went over and teed off at seventeen. He simply gave me the thumbs up as he passed me on the 17th fairway. That is something I will always cherish.”
Oftentimes, the little things have the greatest effects. Similar to when, during the 2022 British Open, Rory McIlroy lifted his cap at Tiger Woods, leading the 15-time major winner to cry.
However, Lundvist is adamant that, in contrast to himself, Woods will return to the Masters to make more memories.
“People ask me if I believe he will return. He will definitely return, Lundquist said. “He’s not gonna let people remember that he was 60th in a field of 60.”
Verne, you make a valid point. I appreciate you sharing. I also appreciate all of the memories.