Golf legend Tiger Woods shared heartbreaking news on Monday, announcing the passing of his mother, Kultida Woods.
“It is with heartfelt sadness that I want to share that my dear mother, Kultida Woods, passed away early this morning,” Tiger wrote in a statement. “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,” he finished.
Kultida Woods, a Thai native, played a significant role in shaping Woods’ career and character. Known for her unwavering support, she was often seen at his tournaments, cheering him on from the sidelines. She raised Tiger alongside his late father, Earl Woods, who passed away in 2006.
Her strength and wisdom were evident throughout Woods’ life, as captured in a 60 Minutes interview with CBS journalist Ed Bradley shortly before Earl Woods’ passing in May 2006. In a one-minute clip from the segment, Kultida Woods’ positive attitude shined as she reflected on the discrimination she and her son faced in the early years of his career.
“When I take him from the tournament to the country club, some of them reject us,” she recalled. “I said, ‘Tiger, it’s their problem. It’s their ignorance. You cannot control other people’s actions or their minds, you can only control yours. Be proud of who you are.’”
Kultida was born in 1944 in Kanchanaburi, Thailand. She met Earl Woods, Tiger’s father, in Thailand in 1966 while he was stationed there during his military service. The couple married in 1969 in Brooklyn, New York, and welcomed their son, Eldrick “Tiger” Woods, in 1975. Kultida was of mixed Thai, Chinese, and Dutch ancestry.
She was a constant presence during the significant moments of Tiger’s life. Their bond is so strong that Tiger, honoring his mother’s advice, chooses to wear red on Sundays, calling it his “power color.” Most recently, Kultida joined Tiger and her grandchildren at his 2022 induction into the World Golf Hall of Fame.
As Woods and his family mourn their loss, tributes continue to pour in for the woman who stood by him through triumphs and hardships.
“I was just informed that Tiger Woods’ wonderful Mother, Kultida, passed away — She has gone onto greener fairways!” President Donald Trump wrote Tuesday.
“Kultida Woods was an amazing influence on Tiger, and gave him much of his strength and brilliance. Melania and I send our love and prayers to Tiger and his incredible family!”
