On Tuesday, golf legend Tiger Woods shared the heartbreaking news that his mother, Kultida Woods, has passed away at the age of 78. Tiger took to X (formerly Twitter) to post a tribute to her, along with a heartfelt statement and a picture of his mother.
In his post, Tiger asked for privacy as he and his family navigate this difficult time of mourning.
“It is with heartfelt sadness that I want to share that my dear mother, Kultida Woods, passed away early this morning,” Woods wrote. “My Mom was a force of nature all her own, her spirit was simply undeniable. She was quick with the needle and a laugh. She was my biggest fan, greatest supporter, without her none of my personal achievements would have been possible. She was loved by so many, but especially by her two grandchildren, Sam and Charlie.
“Thank you all for your support, prayers and privacy at this difficult time for me and my family. Love you, Mom.”
Kultida Woods, who was married to Tiger’s father, Earl Woods, was of Thai, Chinese, and Dutch descent. Tiger was their only child together, though he has several half-siblings from Earl’s previous marriage.
The couple’s love story began when Kultida and Earl met while he was stationed in Thailand during his military service. After their marriage, they moved to Brooklyn, New York, and eventually to Cypress, California, where Tiger was born.
As reported by ESPN, Tiger’s full name, Eldrick, was a tribute to both of his parents: the “E” representing Earl and the “K” honoring Kultida. Tiger’s iconic nickname, “Tiger,” came from Earl’s fallen comrade in the Vietnam War, Tiger Phong, and the name stayed with him throughout his life.