PGA Masters 2012: Could a Tiger Woods Victory Stir Up Momentum?

It seemed not long ago that Tiger Woods was the favorite in any PGA event in which he competed.

At the height of Woods’ fame and success, it seemed to be a foregone conclusion that he would surpass Jack Nicklaus‘ record of 18 PGA major championship victories.

Tiger’s rise to glory was unprecedented and unrivaled.

So was his fall.

Woods’ struggles over the last three years, on and off the golf course, are well documented.

The question “Will Tiger win four or more majors?” transitioned to “Will Tiger win a major ever again?”

Woods once again sparked the golf world’s interest when he won the 2012 Arnold Palmer Invitational, a tournament that is held just two weeks before the illustrious Masters tournament at the Augusta National Golf Club.

Woods’ victory is especially significant considering the field of competition included Masters championship hopefuls Phil Mickelson, Graeme McDowell, Ian Poulter, Bubba Watson and more.

As most golfers will agree, a sometimes overwhelming aspect of the game of golf is mental. One great shot begets another just as a bad shot can give way to a triple bogey.

On a larger scale, winning a tournament after a winless streak (especially following unprecedented domination) may open a flood gate of momentum that can turn a golfer 180 degrees.

Will Tiger Woods win the 2012 Masters tournament?

No one knows for sure.

I would think, however, that the field surrounding Tiger Woods in the 2012 Masters tournament may be a little more concerned that the sleeping dragon has awakened.