Genesis Invitational honors Tiger Woods’ late mother Kultida

The Woods family lost its matriarch with the passing of Kultida Woods in early February. Since then, Tiger Woods made the decision to withdraw from the Genesis Invitational Tournament as he continues to mourn her death.

Now, the Genesis Invitational is honoring Kultida Woods on the 7th hole, which will feature an all white flag for the tournament. A native of Thailand, the white flag is significant culturally to her as a Buddhist.

“A native of Thailand, Tida was a faithful Buddhist,” the PGA tour announced along with a video showing the flag being planted. “And the No. 7 and color white are significant in Buddhism and will be displayed in her honor.”

In a tribute to @TigerWoods' late mother Tida, the 7th hole @TheGenesisInv will feature an all white flag.

A native of Thailand, Tida was a faithful Buddhist, and the No. 7 and color white are significant in Buddhism and will be displayed in her honor. pic.twitter.com/oj9Oh2rrcU

— PGA TOUR (@PGATOUR) February 13, 2025

It was Tiger Woods himself who initially announced his mother’s passing online in a statement.

“It is with heartfelt sadness that I want to share that my dear mother, Kultida Woods, passed away early this morning,” Tiger Woods wrote. “My Mom was a force of nature all her own, her spirit was simply undeniable. 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. Thank you all for your support, prayers and privacy at this difficult time for me and my family. Love you Mom.”

Woods’ parents met in the 1960s during the Vietnam War. Earl Woods was deployed in Thailand at the time and that’s where he met Kultida who was working as a secretary. The couple would return to the United States, settling in California, where Tiger became their firstborn son.

Tiger Woods would show promise as a golfer and both of his parents have been supportive throughout his life. Known for the large hats she often wore on the course, Woods’ mother would often be seen at tournaments supporting him. Woods’ parents took out a second mortgage on their home so he could compete at the American Junior Golf Association Tour, earning access to scouts and premier tournaments. He would later parlay that into playing his college golf at Stanford.

Tiger Woods withdraws from Genesis Invitational at Torrey Pines after death of mother

Ahead of the Genesis Invitational Tournament, Tiger Woods announced he was withdrawing from the tournament while he continues to mourn his mother.

“I planned to tee it up this week, but I’m just not ready,” Woods wrote. “I did my best to prepare, knowing it’s what my Mom would have wanted, but I’m still processing her loss. Thanks to everyone who has reached out. I hope to be at Torrey later in the week and appreciate the continued kindness since my Mom’s passing.”