For the first time in nearly 30 years, Tiger Woods has been surpassed in the Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR) by Justin Leonard, marking a significant moment in golf history. Woods, a 15-time major champion, has dropped to a career-low 1,551st position amid ongoing physical challenges and reduced tournament participation.
This shift reflects Woods’ current difficulties in maintaining his previous competitive form, as his future in the sport remains uncertain due to persistent injuries. Leonard’s rise comes after a steady performance at the recent British Open in Northern Ireland, where he finished tied for 59th place.
Leonard’s Remarkable Ranking Improvement
Justin Leonard’s recent showing at the British Open at Royal Portrush was his first major cut made since 2014, after posting rounds of 70, 74, 70, and 73 to conclude at 2-over par. This effort propelled Leonard’s OWGR ranking from 4,689th to 1,436th, a jump fueled by $41,550 in prize winnings. His ascent ended a 28-year stretch during which he had consistently ranked behind Woods.
Leonard commented on his performance, saying,
“To come over at my experience, and age, and make the cut is pretty special,”
and added,
“Sometimes you can almost throw the yardage book out the window.”
— Justin Leonard, Golfer
At 53, Leonard’s resurgence recalls his past dominance when he won the 1997 Open Championship at Royal Troon. Leading with six birdies on the front nine during that final round, he secured a three-stroke victory over Darren Clarke and Jesper Parnevik, solidifying his name among the sport’s elite. His strong performance at Portrush symbolizes a notable return to form.
Woods Grapples with Physical Setbacks
Tiger Woods’ ranking decline is closely tied to ongoing physical setbacks since his celebrated 2019 Masters victory. Struggling with injuries, he has often been forced to withdraw from events, limiting his ability to compete at previous levels. This downturn contrasts sharply with Woods’ past achievements, including holding the No. 1 ranking for a record 683 weeks, including an uninterrupted span of 281 weeks.
Scottie Scheffler Reflects on Comparisons to Tiger Woods
As Woods faces challenges, Scottie Scheffler has emerged as a leading figure in men’s golf, prompting comparisons with Woods’ legacy. However, Scheffler downplayed these parallels following his recent Royal Portrush victory, stating,
“I think these comparisons are a bit exaggerated,”
and added,
“Tiger has won 15 majors, I’m stuck at four. I’ve only come a quarter of the way there. He was an inspiration to me, a special talent. But he’s unique.”
— Scottie Scheffler, Golfer
At 29, Scheffler has already won two majors in 2025 and held the world No. 1 ranking for 113 weeks. Nonetheless, his achievements still fall short of Woods’ record at the same age, when Woods had 10 majors and 46 PGA Tour wins compared to Scheffler’s four majors and 20 victories. This contrast underscores the extraordinary level of dominance Woods maintained during his career peak.
Implications for Golf’s Future
Tiger Woods’ unprecedented fall in the world rankings signals a pivotal moment in golf history, reflecting the toll of physical ailments on a once-dominant athlete’s career. Meanwhile, Justin Leonard’s unexpected rise after nearly three decades offers a reminder of resilience in the sport. Scottie Scheffler’s steady climb highlights the new generation seeking to fill Woods’ legendary shoes, though the legendary status Woods achieved remains unparalleled.
As Woods’ status continues to shift, questions about his retirement and the evolving landscape of competitive golf persist. Leonard’s resurgence and Scheffler’s ascendancy suggest a dynamic future, even as the game bids farewell to one of its greatest figures.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. What illness did Tiger Woods have?
A. Tiger Woods has decided not to continue in the Genesis Invitational golf tournament after leaving the course showing signs of the flu.
Q. What is Tiger Woods surgery?
A. In September, Woods had a procedure to relieve pressure on nerves in his lower back. This might be his sixth surgery for this issue in a decade. Additionally, Woods has had major Achilles injuries before.