Read more: Charlie Woods Struggles in Opening Round of U.S. Junior Amateur Championship

Who Is Charlie Woods?

Charlie Woods, the 15-year-old son of golf legend Tiger Woods, is competing this week in his first USGA championship. Charlie is participating in the U.S. Junior Amateur Championship, which is being held at the prestigious Oakland Hills Country Club in Bloomfield Township, Michigan.

How did Charlie Woods start playing golf?

Growing up as Tiger Woods' son, it's no surprise Charlie took to golf at an early age. Just being around one of the all-time greats no doubt fueled Charlie's love of the sport from day one.

We got our first real look at Charlie's game when he joined Tiger for the 2021 PNC Championship. Charlie seemed quite at home in the midst of such strong competition, with a swing and poise that belied his age. That competition showed golf fans what Charlie is all about and laid the groundwork for his future in the sport.

Since then, the kid hasn't looked back. Take his qualifier for U.S. Junior Amateur Championship, where Charlie shot an rock-solid one-under par 71 at Eagle Trace Golf Club in Florida to book his ticket. His coach Toby Harbeck says competitions like that have helped Charlie learn to tune out the crowds and stay focused under pressure. Those are skills you can't teach.

Charlie Woods hits a tee shot during pre-qualifying for the 2024 Cognizant Classic at Lost Lake Golf Club, Florida, in February. Joe Robbins/Icon Sportswire/Getty Images

It's scary to think how good Charlie could be, growing up with Tiger as his mentor every step of the way. Kid's got the talent and the big match temperament - all he needs now is time to refine his game. But if his start is anything to go by, this could just be the beginning of something special from Charlie Woods. The golfing world should start paying close attention.

What is Charlie Woods ranking?

The freshman standout from The Benjamin School in Palm Beach, Florida is coming into the event ranked 1279th in the country by the American Junior Golf Association. Globally, he holds a ranking of 763rd in the junior boys division according to The Universal Golf Rankings.

How many junior events has Charlie Woods played in?

While still early in his amateur career, Charlie has already shown glimpses of his potential. In 19 junior tournaments played so far, he has cracked the top 5 on four occasions. 

How far is Charlie Woods' longest drive?

His longest drive on record traveled an impressive 335 yards during December's PNC Championship, where he got to team up with his father Tiger.

What is Charlie Woods' best golf shot?

Charlie's best shot to date came at that same 2020 PNC Championship. On the par-5 third hole, he drilled a draw with his 5-wood from 175 yards to within four feet of the cup. Tiger was heard yelling "awesome shot!" in the background as Charlie would go on to sink the eagle putt in a magical moment with his father.

Eagle for Team Woods. 🦅

-3 thru 3. 👀 pic.twitter.com/mtxecAh5k5

— PGA TOUR (@PGATOUR) December 19, 2020

This week represents Charlie's biggest test yet as an individual competitor. Teeing off at 8:28 am today on the North Course, the young talent will try to follow in the footsteps of his legendary father, who brought home three U.S. Amateur titles of his own in the past. How Charlie fares in his U.S. Junior Amateur debut will be one of the stories to watch at this year's championship.

What are some memorable moments from Charlie Woods' junior golf career?

U.S. Junior Amateur Qualifier: The kid came through in a big way at his U.S. Junior qualifier. After finding himself three over through two, it would have been easy for Charlie to pack it in. But he showed some serious guts to battle back, closing with a one-under-par 71 to take medalist honors. That kind of resilience will serve him well down the line.

Debut at the U.S. Junior Amateur: U.S. Junior in July 2024 was a course Charlie will never forget. Taking on Oakland Hills in front of massive crowds, including his old man Tiger, would be a lot for anyone, let alone a 15-year-old. While the scores weren't great (12-over-par 82 in his opening round), just the experience alone of playing in your first national championship is priceless.

First Competitive Tournament: Can you believe Charlie was only four for his first junior event? Shooting a tidy 55 over nine holes, our little man almost took home the win too. It's crazy to think how long he's been at it now. 

Father-Son Moments: The scenes of Charlie and Tiger going toe-to-toe together are must-watch TV. As much as those tournaments have showcased Charlie's skills, they've also highlighted what a close bond those two share through the game. It's pretty cool to see father-son doing what they love.

David Cannon/Getty Images

State Championship Victory: And let's not forget Charlie playing a key role in his high school team's state title. Winning championships together is what builds lasting memories. Pretty impressive for a young player to be contributing at such a high level already.

Only time will tell how far Charlie's game can take him, but with his elite genes and work ethic, he shows signs of carrying on the Woods family legacy in golf for years to come.

References: https://www.freep.com/story/sports/golf/2024/07/22/charlie-woods-age-golf-tiger-woods-son/74456728007/