Gotcha!! Fast forward to 18 … I'm up by one

Golf Digest, August, 2004

The player who draws first blood in a three-hole playoff has a huge advantage. I was determined to be that player.

At 16, I hit 2-iron just to get it in play and a nice, high 7-iron to about 20 feet.

As that one started breaking into the hole, I chased it there.

When Bob's birdie putt barely missed, I breathed a sigh of relief and tapped in. IT HAD BEEN A GREAT BATTLE.

THE TIP

On must-make putts, I focus on one element--speed. I trust my ability to read putts, but if I don't get the speed right, it doesn't matter.

On breaking putts, I focus on a spot and try to stroke the ball over that spot at the proper speed. To ensure solid contact, I keep my head very still well after the ball is gone.

TIGER TALK

Preparing for the PGA at a site unseen I haven't played Whistling Straits, but I'll go there well in advance to play a practice round like I do for most major championships. I won't walk off any yardages. The main thing is to get a feel for the layout so I can go home and practice. I just want to visualize the kinds of shots I'll have to hit. That way, when I go back for the tournament, I'll know how to shape my shots on every hole. There'll be no surprises.

The Prince of swing

In late May, I hosted Tiger Jam VII at Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino in Las Vegas. It's a great way to relax with friends and raise money for the Tiger Woods Foundation, which is all-important to me. We had a blast and were treated to a great 212-hour concert by Prince (left). He can flat-out perform. I'm not much of a dancer, but I still enjoyed myself thoroughly.