Eldrick Tont Woods, known worldwide as Tiger Woods, is one of the most iconic and successful athletes in the history of golf. Born December 30, 1975, in Cypress, California, he has redefined the sport through an unparalleled combination of power, precision, and mental fortitude. From a prodigious childhood to a professional career marked by historic victories, personal setbacks, and a dramatic comeback, his life remains a subject of global fascination.
Woods turned professional in 1996 after a standout amateur career that included an NCAA championship at Stanford University. His impact was immediate; he won his first major, the Masters, in 1997 at age 21, becoming the youngest winner and the first African American to don the green jacket. That victory, by a record 12 strokes, announced the arrival of a generational talent.
Over the next two decades, Woods would go on to capture 15 major championships—second only to Jack Nicklaus—and 82 PGA Tour wins, a record he shares with Sam Snead. His 2009 personal scandal, a 2021 car accident that nearly ended his career, and a subsequent limited playing schedule have created a legacy defined by both extraordinary achievement and profound human complexity.
Who Is Tiger Woods? Biography and Background
Tiger Woods’ story begins in Cypress, California, where he was born to Earl Woods, an African American former Green Beret, and Kultida Woods, a native of Thailand. Earl introduced Tiger to golf at a very young age, recognizing his son’s extraordinary hand-eye coordination and focus. His full name is Eldrick Tont Woods; the nickname “Tiger” was given in honor of a Vietnamese soldier and friend of his father.
Tiger Woods at a Glance
| Full Name | Born | Net Worth (est.) | Spouse | Children | Majors Won |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Eldrick Tont Woods | December 30, 1975 (age 49 in 2025) | ~$1.1 billion (Forbes, 2024) | Ex-wife: Elin Nordegren | Two: Sam Alexis (b. 2007), Charlie Axel (b. 2009) | 15 (second all-time) |
Key Insights on Tiger Woods
- Tiger Woods is one of the greatest golfers of all time, with 15 major championships and 82 PGA Tour wins.
- His net worth exceeds $1 billion, largely from endorsements (Nike, TaylorMade, etc.) and his TGR Ventures.
- He shares two children with ex-wife Elin Nordegren; his son Charlie has gained attention for golf talent.
- Tiger’s mother, Kultida Woods, is often credited with his discipline and success.
- After a serious car accident in 2021, Woods has made limited tournament appearances, focusing on health and business.
Fast Facts About Tiger Woods
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Born | December 30, 1975, Cypress, California, USA |
| Height | 6 ft 1 in (1.85 m) |
| Turned Professional | 1996 |
| PGA Tour Wins | 82 (tied all-time record) |
| Major Championships | 15 (second to Jack Nicklaus’ 18) |
| Net Worth | $1.1 billion (Forbes, 2024) |
| Parents | Earl Woods (father, deceased), Kultida Woods (mother) |
| Ex-Wife | Elin Nordegren (married 2004, divorced 2010) |
| Children | Sam Alexis Woods (b. 2007), Charlie Axel Woods (b. 2009) |
| Current Residence | Jupiter Island, Florida |
| Charity Foundation | TGR Foundation (founded 1996) |
What Is Tiger Woods’ Net Worth and Where Does He Live?
Tiger Woods’ net worth is one of the most frequently searched topics about him. While he has no single official public figure, credible estimates from Forbes and other financial publications place his total wealth at approximately $1.1 billion as of recent years. This fortune comes primarily from a combination of record-breaking prize money—over $110 million in official earnings—and massive endorsement deals with brands like Nike, TaylorMade, and Rolex.
His current primary residence is a $54 million estate on Jupiter Island, Florida, located in the exclusive community of Isleworth. The property includes a private golf course, multiple buildings, and direct waterfront access. Woods has also maintained homes in Newport Beach, California, and other locations throughout his career.
Tiger’s $1.1 billion net worth is driven by his TGR Ventures company (course design, restaurant ventures), media rights, and historic endorsement contracts. His on-course earnings account for only about 10% of his total wealth, with the rest coming from business ventures and partnerships.
What about his playing schedule?
As of 2025-2026, Woods remains a globally recognized figure in golf, but his playing schedule has been dramatically reduced. After the 2021 car accident in California, which required multiple surgeries, he now competes only in select tournaments. He has not announced retirement, but his participation is limited to a few events per year, often including the Masters.
Who Are Tiger Woods’ Family Members? Wife, Children, and Parents
Tiger Woods was married to Elin Nordegren, a Swedish former model, from 2004 until their divorce in 2010. The marriage produced two children: daughter Sam Alexis Woods (born 2007) and son Charlie Axel Woods (born 2009). The couple’s separation followed the public revelation of Tiger’s serial infidelity, triggered by a Thanksgiving night car crash in 2009.
Since the divorce, Elin has largely stayed out of the public eye. Tiger has been linked to other partners, but these details remain private and often speculative. His children, however, are well-known: Sam has attended tournaments to support her father, while Charlie has gained considerable attention for his own golf talent, often playing alongside his father in the PNC Championship.
His parents, Earl and Kultida Woods, played pivotal roles in his development. Earl Woods, an African American and former Green Beret, introduced Tiger to golf and was his first coach. Kultida Woods (née Punsawad), a Thai native, is credited with instilling discipline and a strong work ethic. Earl passed away in 2006, while Kultida remains an active presence in Tiger’s life.
Charlie Axel Woods, born in 2009, has already drawn comparisons to his father’s early career. He has competed alongside Tiger in the PNC Championship and has displayed remarkable skill for his age. His rising profile suggests a potential next generation of golf talent from the Woods family.
Tiger Woods’ Career: Major Wins and Current Status
Tiger Woods’ career achievements form a bedrock of his legacy. He has won 15 major championships, second only to Jack Nicklaus’ 18. His 82 PGA Tour wins tie Sam Snead’s all-time record. He achieved the Career Grand Slam by age 24, the youngest to do so at that time. His most iconic moment remains the 1997 Masters, where he won by 12 strokes at age 21.
The 2019 Masters victory at age 43 was perhaps his most poignant major win. It was his 15th major overall and his first major victory in 11 years, making him the second oldest golfer to win the Masters after Jack Nicklaus. The comeback from multiple back surgeries and personal turmoil made the moment deeply emotional for fans worldwide.
As of 2025-2026, Woods continues to compete in select tournaments, though his career as a full-time professional effectively ended after the 2021 car accident. He now focuses on business ventures through TGR Ventures, including golf course design and the TGR Foundation charity. He has not announced a retirement date, leaving his future tournament appearances uncertain.
Woods has endured multiple injuries throughout his career: back surgeries (2014, 2015, 2017), a knee reconstruction (2008), and a devastating car accident in February 2021 in Los Angeles. These physical setbacks, combined with the 2009 scandal, have shaped a complex narrative of resilience and limitation.
Key Moments in Tiger Woods’ Life
- 1975: Born Eldrick Tont Woods in Cypress, California.
- 1996: Turns professional; wins first PGA Tour event.
- 1997: Wins first major (Masters) by record 12 strokes.
- 2000-2001: Wins four consecutive majors (Tiger Slam).
- 2004: Marries Elin Nordegren.
- 2007: Birth of daughter Sam Alexis.
- 2009: Birth of son Charlie Axel; personal scandal breaks.
- 2010: Divorces Elin Nordegren.
- 2019: Wins fifth Masters; emotional comeback victory.
- 2021: Serious car accident in Los Angeles, undergoes multiple surgeries.
What We Know vs. What’s Uncertain
| Established Information | Information That Remains Unclear |
|---|---|
| Tiger Woods’ birth date, height, and family members are publicly recorded. | Exact current net worth fluctuates with endorsement deals and investments. |
| Official PGA Tour stats and major wins are uncontested. | His long-term playing schedule remains unconfirmed; he has not announced retirement. |
| Net worth figures from Forbes are reliable estimates but may vary by source. | Details of his romantic life post-divorce are private and often speculative. |
Analysis: Tiger Woods’ Legacy and Current Standing
Woods transformed golf’s popularity and prize money, single-handedly raising the sport’s profile. His personal controversies and injuries have shaped a complex narrative of fall and redemption. In 2025, Woods remains a business magnate (TGR Ventures, course design) despite limited play. His son Charlie’s rising profile suggests a potential next generation of golf talent.
Notable Quotes and Authoritative Sources
“It’s like a full-circle moment.”
Tiger Woods, after 2019 Masters
“He’s the greatest player I’ve ever seen.”
Jack Nicklaus on Woods
“Tiger will change the face of golf.”
Earl Woods (father)
Summary: The Complete Guide to the Golf Legend
Tiger Woods remains a globally recognized figure in golf, a sport he redefined through sheer talent, resilience, and marketability. From his record 15 major championships to his $1.1 billion net worth, his story is one of unmatched highs and profound lows. As he navigates a limited playing schedule post-accident, his influence on the game and popular culture endures.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Tiger Woods’ full name?
His full name is Eldrick Tont Woods.
How many PGA Tour events has Tiger Woods won?
He has won 82 PGA Tour events, tied with Sam Snead for the all-time record.
Is Tiger Woods still playing golf?
Yes, he still plays occasionally but has reduced his schedule due to injuries and age.
Who is Tiger Woods’ ex-wife?
His ex-wife is Elin Nordegren, a Swedish former model.
How much is Tiger Woods’ house worth?
His primary residence in Jupiter Island, Florida, is estimated at around $54 million.
What car does Tiger Woods drive?
He has been associated with luxury vehicles, but specific current car details are private.
How many majors has Tiger Woods won?
He has won 15 major championships.
Daniel Okafor is Markets Editor at TradeWireUK.uk, covering financial markets, the FTSE, shares, currencies, commodities and investor news.