Tiger Woods led the USA to a stunning Presidents' Cup win over Ernie Els' Rest of the World team in Melbourne.
Woods led from the front on the final day to win his singles game over Mexican Abe Ancer 3 & 2. It started a day where the American team trailed 10-8 at the beginning of play.
Tiger goes to remove his hat before the putt even dropped. I’m dead. pic.twitter.com/SR7rgJ7NpI
— Ryan Lavner (@RyanLavnerGC) December 15, 2019
The finish of the singles game was a classic and handed Tiger a perfect three wins from three outings in the competition. Woods was 3 up with three holes to play as he stood over a 20-footer for birdie at 16, with Ancer studying a shorter birdie attempt for a chance to move on to the 17th hole.
The Master Champion ensured Ancer never had that chance. He went to take his hat off to shake hands with Ancer before his ball found the bottom of the cup.
Tiger Woods said afterwards: "Probably like 6 feet out, the match was over,” although he did concede. “Hat might have gone maybe a little early.”
Crucial
While Tiger stole the headlines there were crucial singles wins for Patrick Reed, Dustin Johnson, Patrick Cantlay, Xander Shauffle, and Webb Simpson. While it was a half from Matt Kuchar against Louis Oosthuizen that sealed the win for the USA.
This was a win against the odds for the American team, who trailed Ernie Els's team since day one. No team had ever come back from 4-1 down after the opening session.
Justin Thomas went through the tournament unbeaten, the American former world number one took four-and-a-half points from his five matches, two of those points came when paired with skipper Woods.
After the comeback Tiger Woods struggled to contain his joy, capping an incredible return to form.
“I love playing with my teammates, and couldn't have a better group of guys to be the captain for. So, having the ability to do both this week has been just a special experience and one that I will never forget.”
