Tiger Woods claimed the 80th and perhaps most significant PGA Tour title of his career last night as the 42-year-old’s miraculous clamber back from the depths of physical, personal and psychological despair was rewarded with victory in the Tour Championship at East Lake.
Just days before the 14-time major winner returns to the Ryder Cup arena in Paris, Woods ensured he will travel on the tail wind of a first victory since 2013 as he eased over the finishing line in Atlanta.
Amid scenes of pandemonium which merely underlined his unwavering lure, Woods, who led by three overnight, signed off with a one-over 71 for an 11-under 269 and won by two strokes from the fast-finishing Billy Horschel. Rory McIlroy, paired with Woods for the final round, slithered out of the running with a 74.
"At the beginning of the year that [winning] was a tall order, but as the year progressed and I proved that I could play and I found a swing I knew I could do it again," said a jubilant Woods.
Justin Rose’s share of fourth, meanwhile, ensured the Englishman won the FedEx Cup.
Woods fought back tears after completing one of the greatest comebacks in sport with his victory.
It was a day that many thought might never happen again after Woods underwent spinal fusion surgery in April last year and thousands of his delirious fans spilled onto the 18th fairway to follow their idol to the green after his approach found a greenside bunker.
Chants of "U-S-A" and "Tiger, Tiger" broke out before playing partner McIlroy could attempt his eagle putt, McIlroy wisely then tapping in for his birdie in a disappointing 74 to leave the stage clear.
And, although Woods could not match it, he held his arms aloft in celebration of a brilliant win.
He added: "I was having a hard time not crying on that last hole. After Rory tapped in. I started tearing up a little bit. I just can't believe I've pulled this off. It's been tough.
"I've had it not so easy the last couple of years and worked my way back and couldn't have done it without the help of everyone around me. Some of the players I saw after on the 18th green knew what I was struggling with and it was really special to see them there. It's just hard to believe I've won the Tour Championship."
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