Tiger Woods has proved to be an inspiration to many aspiring golfers all around the world. His achievements evoke a sense of respect for the man. But sometimes, there are instances where his records are broken by golfers who aspire to be great in the game and that is exactly what happened when a young prodigy walked on the same path as the GOAT this Sunday.
The young golf phenom managed to achieve a feat that only the legend of the game has attained to date, winning both the US Junior and US Amateur Titles. And the amateur golfer had much to say in regard to the professional golfer which left many surprised and touched. Let’s dive into the story.
Nick Dunlap confesses his admiration for Tiger Woods
Tensions were high at the Cherry Hills Country Club as the 123rd US Amateur Golf Championship reached its climax on Sunday. And Nick Dunlap eventually emerged victorious to take home the title and the Havemeyer trophy and become part of an exclusive company.
Addressing a presser post the feat, Dunlap mentioned how Tiger had been an inspiration to him all throughout his life. “He’s the reason I got into it,” said the amateur golfer while expressing his happiness at winning both tournaments,
Nick went on to talk about how the idea of even comparing his name with the GOAT of golf is something to be proud of. The golfer continued with a lot of pride, “Just to have my name even halfway associated with Tiger who’s the greatest to ever play is the reason I’m playing golf.”
Let’s now see how Dunlap played across the tournament to achieve the extraordinary feat and join the likes of the one and only Tiger Woods.
Dunlap’s successful shot to glory
Nick, a sophomore at the University of Alabama, emerged victorious against Ohio State graduate Neal Shipley at the 123rd US Amateur Championship with a 4-3 win. The amateur golfer put up a spectacular display of golf scoring 12 birdies during the match which helped him beat Shipley and lift the cup.
Moreover, Dunlap was also able to place himself at the No. 9 spot in the World Amateur Golf Rankings. He had emerged victorious in the US Amateur Championship in 2021 which set him up nicely for the historical moment that took place last week.
But, while the 19-year-old has only managed to do it once, Tiger had been successful in winning the two tournaments three times each in a span of six years. He bagged three US Junior titles consecutively from 1991 to 1993 and also clinched three US Amateurs from 1994 to 1996. And the young golfer was seemingly humble as well when asked about the same. “Well, I think it’s only a third of what Tiger’s actually done,” he said.
What did you think of his performance at the US Amateur Championship? Will he be able to carry forward the momentum to his next tournament? Share your thoughts below.