Born Eldrick Tont Woods on December 30, 1975, in Cypress, California, Tiger Woods was destined for greatness. His parents, Earl and Kultida Woods, invested time, discipline and resources into their son to ensure he would become one of the greatest golfers the world has ever seen.
The nickname “Tiger” is a tribute to Col. Vuong Dang Phong, a friend of Earl’s from his Vietnam War days. Golf entered Woods’ life early—at just two years old, he was introduced to the game by his father, a spirited amateur golfer.
Even as a child, it was clear Woods was no typical prodigy. At eight, he clinched his first tournament victory in the Junior World Golf Championships’ 9–10 age group. He would go on to dominate this competition, winning it six times, with an astounding streak of four consecutive wins from 1988 to 1991.
Woods’ rise continued at Western High School, where he etched his name into the annals of golf history. At 15, he became the youngest-ever U.S. Junior Amateur champion—a title he would win three years in a row from 1991 to 1993, an accomplishment no other player has reached.
By 1994, he claimed the U.S. Amateur Championship, again making history, which led to Stanford University offering the young prodigy a barrage of scholarships. During his time at Stanford, he earned the title of Stanford’s Male Freshman of the Year.
In 1996, after two years at Stanford, Woods turned pro.
Woods’ rookie year was capped with honors: PGA Tour Rookie of the Year and Sports Illustrated’s Sportsman of the Year. His endorsement deals with Nike and Titleist shattered records, ushering in a new era for athletes as global brands. In 1996, Woods signed a five-year, $40 million deal with Nike. He then signed on for an additional five years for a whopping $100 million. The following deal with Nike would be for a massive $320 million before he would ink a 10-year contract with the sporting giants for $200. Titleist also stepped up to the tee with an offer of $20 million over five years.
In 1997, he won his first major, the Masters Tournament, and climbed to the No. 1 spot in the Official World Golf Rankings just two months later.
By 1999, Woods had racked up eight wins that year and continued his dominance with six consecutive victories in 2000.
To this day, the 15-time major champion remains one of the most sought-after golfers in the world.
