Tiger Woods was finishing his round when he received unexpected and devastating news from his caddie, Joe LaCava.
After walking off the 18th green, LaCava informed Woods that Kobe Bryant had tragically died in a helicopter crash that Sunday morning.
Shocked and stunned, Woods responded, “Excuse me?” as the news sunk in.
In a post-round interview, Woods reflected on his connection with Bryant, expressing his sadness and disbelief at the sudden loss.
Woods shared, “I didn’t know about it until Joey told me just as I was finishing my round. I was puzzled by the crowd shouting ‘Do it for Mamba’ but now I understand. It’s a heartbreaking day for everyone. I am incredibly saddened. It’s a tragic moment, and the reality is just setting in for me as I only found out about it five minutes ago.”
Regarding Bryant’s competitive spirit and unyielding drive, Woods praised him saying, “The fire, he burned so intensely. His will to win was unmatched. Every game, he brought his best on both offense and defense. Not many players in NBA history can claim that level of dedication.”
