Tiger Roars at Chevron, Fuels Positive Thoughts for 2012 Season

Tiger Woods’ victory at the Chevron World Challenge a few weeks ago has people chattering about the 14-time Major winner.  And for the first time since November of 2009, it is about his game on the green. 

Woods ended a frustrating victory drought of more than two years when he overcame a one shot deficit with two holes to play, shooting a final round three-under par 69 at the Sherwood Country Club to defeat fellow American Zach Johnson, and claim the 95^th tournament win of his career. 

The win marked the first for Woods since the 2009 Australian Masters.  With his life swarming in controversy amidst a sex scandal and eventual divorce from wife, Elin, Woods saw his world ranking plummet from No. 1 to 52^nd as he struggled with injuries and his swing. 

So the question remains, is the fist-pumping Woods we saw on the 18^th green of the Sherwood Country Club on December 4^th the same Tiger we will see on the links in 2012? 

Certainly the PGA, the networks and the sponsors hope so, and it is safe to say a good handful of fans do too. 

While some may never again embrace Tiger, who in 2010 admitted to cheating on his wife and has sparked controversy with his fiery behavior on the course, others are looking to see him succeed and continue his quest to overcome Nicklaus’ record of 18 major titles. 

Given that Tiger has not held a major trophy above his head since his 2008 U.S. Open victory, and the strong play of the young talent behind him, the goal of catching Jack seems less plausible than it once did. 

Nevertheless, Tiger’s victory at the Chevron event, and his clutch putting late on Sunday—something that has eluded him for two years—all point to an exciting 2012 golf season. 

After a down 2010 and 2011 seasons for the PGA, the potential for Woods to contend in all four majors this coming season is most welcome.