A Few Early Round Tiger Observations
/With Tiger vaulting to the top of the Australian Open leaderboard, it's hardly a revelation to say his game is rounding into shape. But even before he ran off birdies at the 13th, 14th, 16th and 18th holes to post an opening 32, he's exuding much more confidence and focus than even a month ago when he played at CordeValle.
Despite the glacial pace and anti-ready golf of playing partners Jason Day and Robert Allenby, Woods' swing and body language looked as comfortable as I've seen in some time.
His short game is looking better, highlighted by a brilliant lob wedge on the par-5 11th hole (his second hole of the day). He missed the birdie putt, but the shot was a far cry from some of the lousy short game antics he's displayed in the last year or so.
One thing to look for and I haven't a clue what it means: a Gary Player-like follow through where his right foot and hip gently spin through after impact. Twice it happened on downhill lies, but he also sported one flat lie and I wonder if it's a move to take a little pressure off his right knee leg?
A few images from early in the round (click on them to enlarge) hopefully captures the energy and passion of Aussie golf, where the spectators are very supportive of Woods:
