16-Year-Old Charlie Woods Echoes Tiger’s Legacy with Stunning Career-Best Golf Round

Tiger Woods’ Son Charlie, 16, Shines at Junior PGA Championship with Stellar Round
By Isabel Baldwin | Updated: 17:49 BST, 30 July 2025

Charlie Woods, the 16-year-old son of golf legend Tiger Woods, delivered a jaw-dropping performance at the Junior PGA Championship this week, rebounding emphatically after a recent setback at the US Junior Amateur. Competing at Purdue University’s Birck Boilermaker Golf Complex, Charlie surged into contention with a second-round 66 (-6), climbing to tied-fourth place at seven-under overall—six strokes behind leader Lunden Esterline of Kansas.

Charlie Woods carded nine birdies during his electrifying second round.

The teenager’s turnaround was nothing short of dramatic. After opening with a modest 70 (-1) on Tuesday, Charlie exploded into form Wednesday with a rollercoaster round that showcased his resilience. He birdied the first hole, dropped a shot at the second, but then ignited a stunning run with nine birdies, offset by late bogeys at the 16th and 17th. His fiery play evoked glimpses of his father’s trademark grit, though Tiger himself never won this event, finishing runner-up in 1990.

Charlie’s performance marked a stark contrast to his struggles just weeks prior. At the US Junior Amateur in Dallas, he faltered to an 11-over first round and missed the cut by 12 strokes despite a brief rally. Tiger, who famously won three straight US Junior Amateur titles (1991–1993), watched from the sidelines as his son battled inconsistency.

Tiger Woods (left) witnessed Charlie’s mixed results at the US Junior Amateur earlier this month.

Now, Charlie’s focus shifts to chasing his first major junior title. While still trailing Esterline, his resurgence highlights his potential. Last year, he similarly missed the cut at the Junior PGA, but 2025 signals progress. With two rounds remaining, the young Woods aims to close the gap, channeling the tenacity that made his father a 15-time major champion.

Charlie’s second-round 66 propelled him into the top five at Purdue University.

The golf world will watch closely to see if Charlie can mirror Tiger’s historic junior success—or carve his own path to glory.

Key Highlights:

• Round 1: 70 (-1) with three birdies, two bogeys.
• Round 2: 66 (-6) featuring nine birdies, three bogeys.
• Tournament Leader: Lunden Esterline (-13) holds a commanding lead.

Charlie’s journey continues Friday as he eyes a weekend charge. For now, his bounceback has reignited excitement—and inevitable comparisons to golf’s greatest champion.