Tiger Woods announces mother Kultida's death at 81 in emotional tribute, says 'she was my biggest fan'

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Tiger Woods mother, Kultida Woods, has died at the age of 81, the golfer announced on Tuesday, February 4.

“It is with heartfelt sadness that I want to share that my dear mother, Kultida Woods, passed away early this morning. My mom was a force of nature all her own, her spirit was simply undeniable,” Woods, 49, wrote in an emotional social media post.

Tiger Woods' emotional tribute to mother Kultida Woods

In his tribute, Tiger Woods wrote, “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," he shared.

"Thank you all for your support, prayers, and privacy at this difficult time for me and my family. Love you, Mom,” Woods concluded.

Kultida Woods was a lifelong supporter of her son Tiger Woods' career

Kultida Woods was last seen attending Tiger Woods’ TGL match in South Florida last week, according to NBC Sports.

She was a constant presence at his tournaments, cheering him on while donning her signature oversized black glasses and visor.

Kultida and Woods' father, Earl Woods, were married for 37 years until Earl’s death in May 2006.

Woods credited his mother as the “enforcer” in the household.

"My dad may have been in the Special Forces, but I was never afraid of him,” Woods told USA Today in 2017.

“My mom's still here, and I'm still deathly afraid of her. She's a very tough, tough old lady, very demanding. … I love her so much, but she was tough," he added.

Kultida Woods' influence on Tiger Woods' career

Kultida Woods never wavered in her support for Tiger Woods, both on and off the golf course.

She joined her grandchildren, Sam Alexis and Charlie Axel, at Woods’ induction into the World Golf Hall of Fame in 2022. 

She was also credited with influencing one of Woods’ most recognizable habits, wearing a red shirt on Sundays.

She believed the color symbolized power and would lead him to victory.

At first, Woods was not convinced. Against his mother’s advice, he wore blue at two junior golf tournaments—and lost both times.

"[I] switched to red and I went on a hot streak. And, well, I kept it," he later shared, according to People.

In 2009, Woods reaffirmed his mother’s wisdom on his website, stating, "You should always listen to your mom."