Tiger Woods opened his 2010 British Open campaign with a par at gray St Andrews, hoping to end his longest drought for victory in his career. Tiger, who is now more known for his off-the-field activities, was in a bright fuschia shirt but without a rain jacket even though weathermen forecast heavy rain. Woods received an overwhelming ovation as the announcer said his name at the Old Course.
As Woods entered the ground, the crowd cheered for him with many praising his on the field moves. One voice was heard shouting "One time!" when Woods ripped a long iron down the left side of the wide first fairway. Later a wedge brought Woods within 18 feet of the pin. Then the player took two more swipes to complete the par.
Woods is hoping for his first victory of this year, which has been so far mixed in nature since his April return. Woods had imposed a hiatus on himself to undergo counseling amid a number sex scandals that has almost ruined his private and professional life. The player has so far clinched two fourth-place finishes in major events. Woods yesterday paired himself for the first two rounds with Justin Rose, who has evolved as the Open's most sought after player. He comes off two PGA tours victory in the past six weeks. Rose and third number Camilo Veillgas also parred no.1.
John Daly, who had clinched the 1995 Open at St. Andrews, gained the initial lead at 5-under through eight holes. German pro Marcel Siem (through 12) and Australia's John Senden (through 11) were short of one shot.
