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Cheyenne Woods Recalls Heartfelt Gesture from Grandfather Earl Woods Sr.
Professional golfer Cheyenne Woods, the half-niece of iconic golf champion Tiger Woods, became emotional as she remembered a touching act by Earl Woods Sr., Tiger’s late father.
Growing up in Phoenix, Arizona, Cheyenne Woods, daughter of Earl Dennison Woods Jr. and Susan Woods, was introduced to golf at a young age. Her grandfather, Earl Woods Sr., a Vietnam War veteran and the first golf mentor for both Cheyenne and Tiger Woods, played a significant role in fostering her early passion for the sport.
Earl Woods Sr., who died in 2006 at the age of 74, left a lasting legacy on Cheyenne Woods, who pursued a career in professional golf, mirroring her uncle Tiger’s path.
The Letter from Earl Woods
In a recent episode of the “Welcome to the Par-tee” podcast hosted by Tisha Alyn, Cheyenne Woods recounted the story of a significant letter penned by Earl Woods. This letter, written years before, was not revealed to Cheyenne until after her grandfather’s passing.
Cheyenne explained that Earl Woods Sr., a former scout for IMG (International Management Group), had a keen eye for talent. During a conversation in his kitchen when Cheyenne was just a child of four or five, Earl disclosed he had written an official scouting report about her and submitted it to IMG.
Intrigued, Cheyenne inquired about the report’s contents. Earl’s response was to keep it a mystery, stating that when she turned professional, IMG would approach her, bringing the letter for her to finally read.
Years later, after graduating from Wake Forest University and deciding to turn professional, IMG indeed contacted Cheyenne. As promised, they presented her with the letter from her grandfather.
Contents and Impact of the Letter
The letter, dated from approximately 1993 when Cheyenne was around three or four years old, detailed Earl Woods Sr.’s early assessment of her golfing potential. He expressed his belief in her ability to compete on tour, recognizing her inherent skills even at a young age.
Cheyenne emphasized the profound impact of such unwavering belief from a mentor. She stated that having someone who believed in her capabilities, even before she fully believed in herself, was a driving force throughout her golf career and life.
Reflecting on her reaction upon finally reading the letter, Cheyenne admitted it was something she had “always in the back of my mind.”
Receiving the letter decades later was described as a “full circle moment” that felt “unreal.” The fact that it was handwritten in cursive made it even more poignant, allowing her to connect with her grandfather’s words on a deeper level after his passing.
Cheyenne cherishes the letter, stating it is framed in her home as a constant reminder of her grandfather’s early belief in her potential and a treasured memory.
Cheyenne Woods’ Professional Career and Family Legacy
Cheyenne Woods officially turned professional in 2012. Her early career highlights include qualifying for the 2012 U.S. Women’s Open and making her debut at the 2012 LPGA Championship.
The Woods family has faced recent bereavement. Kultida Woods, Tiger Woods’ mother and Earl Woods Sr.’s second wife, passed away in February 2025 at the age of 81. Earl Woods Sr. and Kultida were married for 37 years until his death in 2006.
Tiger Woods released a heartfelt statement acknowledging his mother’s passing and celebrating her profound influence on his life and career. He described her as his “biggest fan” and “greatest supporter,” emphasizing that his achievements would not have been possible without her. He also mentioned her deep love for her grandchildren, Sam and Charlie.