Tiger Woods announced the passing of his mother, Kultida, on Monday. In a heartfelt tribute, the SoFi Center observed a moment of silence before this week’s TGL action.

Boston Common and Los Angeles Golf Club observed a one-minute silence before their TGL match on Monday, paying tribute to Kultida Woods, the late mother of Tiger Woods.

Tiger announced her passing earlier that day, sharing a heartfelt statement on social media: “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. 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.”

TGL’s tribute came just a week after Kultida attended a match at the SoFi Center. Her profound influence on Tiger’s life and career was also acknowledged by PGA Tour Commissioner Jay Monahan, who stated, “The PGA Tour family is saddened by the passing of Kultida Woods. Tiger’s greatness and humanity have stemmed from the love and support of his mother. We will cherish our memories of her, and our thoughts are with Tiger, his children, and their family.”

Following the match, Tiger’s TGL business partner Rory McIlroy reflected on her passing, calling it “very sad, sort of surreal,” noting her warmth and generosity whenever they crossed paths at tournaments. “She always had a big smile,” McIlroy said. “You feel for Tiger, Sam, and Charlie and wish them all the best. It’s a sad day.”

Tiger Woods announced on Tuesday that his mother, Kultida Woods, has passed away. No cause of death was immediately disclosed.

“My mom was a force of nature all her own; her spirit was simply undeniable,” Woods shared in a statement on social media. “She was quick with the needle and a laugh, my biggest fan, my greatest supporter—without her, none of my personal achievements would have been possible.”

Just last week, Kultida attended Tiger’s TGL match in South Florida, where she was seen on the telecast. She had moved to the area after Tiger relocated from Orlando.

Though Earl Woods, Tiger’s late father, was well-known in golf circles, Tiger often credited his Thai-born mother as the driving force in his career. She was the disciplinarian, the enforcer, and the one who instilled in him his ruthless competitive edge. Tida and Earl Woods were married for 37 years until Earl’s passing in 2006 at age 74.

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. She was quick with the needle and a laugh. She was my biggest fan, greatest supporter,… pic.twitter.com/RoKd0fsM9J

— Tiger Woods (@TigerWoods) February 4, 2025

During his 2024 Bob Jones Award acceptance speech, Woods paid tribute to his mother, emphasizing her unwavering presence in his life. “Everyone thought it was my dad when I went on the road, and it was—but Mom was at home. She has been there my entire life, through thick and thin.”

It was Kultida who shuttled a young Tiger to all his junior tournaments, encouraged him to wear red as his power color, and stood behind the ropes at nearly every one of his professional triumphs. She was a constant presence during his most legendary moments, from his historic win at the 1997 Masters to his remarkable comeback victory at Augusta in 2019, where she stood behind the 18th green with her grandchildren, Sam and Charlie.

“She allowed me to get here,” Woods said in 2024. “She let me chase my dreams. I had the greatest rock any child could ask for: my mom. Thank you, Mommy.”

Woods, 49, is the tournament host for next week’s Genesis Invitational, now relocated from Riviera Country Club to Torrey Pines in San Diego. It remains uncertain whether he will compete.

“Thank you all for your support, prayers, and privacy during this difficult time for me and my family,” Woods expressed.

Competing in his first tournament on the Advocates Professional Golf Tour (APGA) season-opener Farmers Insurance Invitational on Sunday, January 26, Kieron van Wyk made history with a groundbreaking victory. Contested at Torrey Pines Golf Course (South), with this win, 23-year-old Kieron became the first amateur golfer to claim victory in an APGA event since the tour’s inception in 2010.

Kieron’s precision golf swing is a vital part of his wins and overall career success. The 23-year-old’s swing has taken years to develop, and, looking closely, you’ll see that his swing is built on the basics: proper mechanics, balance, and consistency. The College of Charleston senior knows that the grip is a fundamental element, as it provides control and stability. Like many golfers, Kieron uses the overlapping (Vardon), interlocking, or baseball grip, ensuring that both hands work together. “The part of my swing that I like the most is how naturally on plane my swing is,” said Kieron.

Watch Kieron’s swing closely and you’ll see how stance and posture play a crucial role in his successful swing. Feet shoulder-width apart, with knees slightly flexed. Kieron maintains a straight back with a slight bend at the hips, while his weight distribution remains even at setup, shifting naturally throughout the swing. “The part of my swing that I think needs the most work is my rotation going back, i.e. the depth of my back swing,” Kieron stated.

During his backswing, notice how Kieron’s club moves smoothly and in a controlled manner. A full shoulder rotation, while keeping his lead arm straight, helps him to generate power. His hips turn naturally, with weight shifting to his back foot. Kieron’s downswing begins with the hips leading, followed by the arms and hands. He keeps the clubface square at impact to ensure accuracy while shifting his weight toward as his front foot adds stability and power.

Kieron finishes his swing with proper follow-through — essential for maintaining balance and direction. Then, his body rotates naturally, with his chest facing the target. Seasoned golfers know that a steady tempo is key, as swinging too fast can lead to loss of control. Keeping the head steady and maintaining proper alignment also contribute to a more consistent swing.

If you’re having trouble with your golf swing, try practicing these fundamentals with a certified instructor. Refining the technique through drills can help golfers develop a smooth and effective swing. See our list of Golf Instructors HERE.

Tournament host Tiger Woods has announced Danny List as the recipient of the Charlie Sifford Memorial Exemption into the 2025 Genesis Invitational. List will join the field at Torrey Pines GC (South Course) February 13-16. Awarded annually since 2009, the Sifford exemption represents the advancement of diversity in the game of golf.

“Danny has shown resiliency and determination on the course by earning his DP World Tour card after returning from an injury,” Woods said. “He’s earned this opportunity, and I look forward to seeing Danny tee it up at Torrey.”

List, who currently resides in San Diego, will make his PGA TOUR debut at The Genesis Invitational at Torrey Pines in February. The 2025 Genesis Invitational was relocated to San Diego due to the wildfires in the greater Los Angeles area and out of respect for those affected.

“It’s an incredible privilege to be the recipient of the Charlie Sifford Memorial Exemption and be invited to compete at The Genesis Invitational at Torrey Pines,” List said. “To have this recognition, especially in Mr. Sifford’s legacy, means the world to me. I’d like to thank Tiger for entrusting me with the opportunity to represent Mr. Sifford’s pioneering spirit and all that he’s done for the game of golf.”

For List, making his PGA TOUR debut is a dream realized since his introduction to golf as a child in Ghana. First introduced to the game at the age of three, List learned to play in his hometown of Accra, Ghana, where he often competed as a junior in men’s tournaments. List’s game advanced to the point of needing better competition and coaching during his teenage years, leading him to earn a scholarship to Wellington College in the U.K. where he would attend school and compete from the age of 13 to 18.

During his late teenage years, List took full advantage of the opportunity to play in the U.K. and rose through the British and European amateur golf ranks. At the age of 14, List was the European junior champion while also earning ISGA National High School champion honors in 2015 and 2016. List would attend the University of Washington for one year (2016-17) before turning professional. With a handful of starts on PGA TOUR Canada, PGA Tour Latinoamérica and the Korn Ferry Tour, List has also competed on the PGA Tour of Australasia. List plays under the Australian flag.

After a stress fracture to his lower back left him unable to swing a golf club, List missed the 2023 golf season. He would bounce back in 2024. In July 2024, List set a tournament scoring record at 21-under par while winning the 124^th California State Open. In November 2024, List earned his 2025 DP World Tour Card, finishing as one of the top 21 players at Q School.

While List has paved a way for himself from Africa to the PGA TOUR, he also provides opportunities to kids in Ghana that were not available when he was growing up. In 2021, the Danny List Foundation was formed to help junior golfers in Ghana realize their potential. List has hosted youth clinics for more than 40 children while also providing equipment, coaching and an introduction to competition.

Since 2009, an exemption has been given to a deserving golfer representing a minority background to play in the annual PGA TOUR event. In 2017, the exemption was re-named to honor the memory of Charlie Sifford, the first African-American player to compete on the PGA TOUR and the winner of the 1969 Los Angeles Open at Rancho Park.

The full list of previous Charlie Sifford Memorial Exemption recipients includes Vincent Johnson (2009), Joshua Wooding (2010), Joseph Bramlett (2011 & 2020), Andy Walker (2012), Jeremiah Wooding (2013), Harold Varner III (2014), Carlos Sainz, Jr. (2015), J.J. Spaun (2016), Kevin M. Hall (2017), Cameron Champ (2018), Tim O’Neal (2019), Willie Mack III (2021), Aaron Beverly (2022), Marcus Byrd (2023) and Chase Johnson (2024).

The Genesis Invitational will be held February 13-16 at Torrey Pines GC (South Course) and broadcast on GOLF Channel and CBS. Tickets to the tournament are currently available at GenesisInvitational.com. For the latest news and information, follow the tournament on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @TheGenesisInv.

The Fore Sistas of Fairview Golf Club recently received well-deserved recognition on CBS Morning News, highlighting its mission to empower African American female golfers. The segment features an interview with Co-Founder Phyllis Gillespie, alongside rising golf star Staci Pla, a talented young golfer whom the organization has proudly supported through funds raised from its 2023 and 2024 tournaments.

This year, Fore Sistas is preparing for its highly anticipated 4th Annual Tournament, taking place on February 28 and March 1 at the African American-owned Martin Downs Golf & Country Club in Palm City, Florida. The event promises to be another exciting and memorable experience, attracting business professionals, golf enthusiasts of all levels, and spectators from across the region. Known for its lively atmosphere, competitive play, and community-driven purpose, the tournament is a must-attend for those passionate about golf and supporting meaningful change.

Beyond the game, Fore Sistas continues to make a significant impact, fostering diversity, inclusion, and opportunity in golf. As a 501(c)(3) volunteer organization based in Jensen, Florida, the club is committed to expanding the presence of talented women in both the sport and business of golf. Through friendship, mentorship, and financial support, Fore Sistas empowers young African American female golfers, providing them with the resources they need to thrive.

For more information, to become a member, register for the tournament, or support their initiatives, visit https://foresistasgolf.com.