Why Torrey Pines is Tiger Woods’ most successful PGA Tour venue

Although Tiger Woods will not be participating in this week’s Farmers Insurance Open, his legacy will still be felt at Torrey Pines.

 

This tournament is particularly special for Tiger, who has claimed victory here seven times, including his remarkable 2008 US Open win while battling injury.

 

His connection to the California course began in 1991 when, at just 15 years old, he triumphed in the Junior World Championship, winning the 15-17 age division despite being the youngest competitor.

 

Here’s a recap of his achievements at Torrey Pines along with his comments following those victories.

 

**1999 Buick Invitational – 22-under**

After finishing third the previous year, Woods found himself nine shots behind at the halfway mark. However, he surged ahead with a course record-tying third round of 62, ultimately finishing with a 65 and winning by two strokes over Billy Ray Brown.

 

Tiger’s remark: “I just kept competing as much as I could, hitting great shots, and making putts whenever possible. It was a real battle throughout. This victory is especially meaningful since my family and friends are here—I feel more connected with a hometown crowd.”

 

**2003 Buick Invitational – 16-under**

Following finishes of second, fourth, and fifth from 2000 to 2002, Woods secured his second professional victory at Torrey Pines after shooting two rounds of 68 on the weekend, finishing four shots ahead of Carl Pettersson. This was his first tournament back after knee surgery in the off-season.

 

Tiger’s comment: “I’m really thrilled to be back, and winning this tournament makes it even better. It feels great to triumph over such a competitive field, and I’m proud of playing 72 holes without soreness. I only made four bogeys this week—one in each round—so I’m pleased with how I performed.”

 

“It’s like certain players—my friend Mark O’Meara won five times at Pebble, Sam Snead at Greensboro, and Jack Nicklaus at Augusta—somehow this course has been favorable for me, too.”

 

**2008 US Open – 1-under**

Despite being visibly injured, Woods remained competitive and made a 12-foot birdie putt on the final hole to tie for the lead with Rocco Mediate.

 

With a torn left knee ligament and a double stress fracture in his tibia, Woods and Mediate remained deadlocked after an additional 18 holes on Monday. Woods ultimately prevailed at the first playoff hole, marking his 91st of the week and clinching his 14th Major title.

 

Tiger stated: “I’m relieved it’s over. I really don’t have any interest in playing right now; I’m pretty sore. The atmosphere and the significance of this Major at Torrey Pines motivated me. I couldn’t give up in front of these fans. It just wasn’t an option. I’ll take some time off.” (Woods did not compete again in 2008).

 

**2013 Farmers Insurance Open – 14-under**

After the 2008 US Open and prior to the 2013 Farmers Insurance Open (now with new sponsors), Woods participated in this event only once, finishing 44th in 2011.

 

However, he returned in form after dealing with various injuries, taking the halfway lead and eventually winning by four strokes, even leading by eight at one point. This marked one of his five victories that year, earning him the Player of the Year award.

 

Tiger commented: “I’m thrilled with my performance this week. I played well and maintained a nice cushion. Although I made a couple of late mistakes, my solid play earlier allowed me to manage them. It’s great to walk around here without any pain.”