Tiger Woods announces death of mother who was “my biggest fan”

Tiger Woods announced the death of his mother, Kultida, on Tuesday, paying tribute to her as “my biggest fan.”

“It is with deep sadness that I share with you that my beloved mother, Kultida Woods, passed away early this morning,” the 15-time major champion wrote on Instagram.

“My mother was a force of nature in her own right and her spirit was undeniable. She moved the needle quickly and made me laugh. She was my biggest fan and biggest supporter. Without her, none of my personal achievements would have been possible. “She was loved by many people, but especially by her grandsons Sam and Charlie.

“I would like to thank everyone for their support, prayers and respect for our privacy during this difficult time for me and my family. “I love you, Mommy.”

Kutilda, a Thai national, met Woods’ father, Earl, while serving in the U.S. military in Bangkok in the late 1960s.

Woods, who was always on the golf course during his son’s greatest triumphs, often speaks fondly of how his mother’s support helped shape his career, and has said in interviews that he feared her more than he feared his father.

“He was very worldly and deep in his thinking,” Woods said of his father. “My mom was the enforcer. My dad may have been in the Special Forces, but I was never afraid of him.

“My mom is still here, and I’m still scared to death of her. She is a very difficult and difficult old lady and is very tough. She was a hand, she was the only person, I love her very much. »» »