GOLF.AI • Feb 22, 2026

Tiger's Ultimate Booth Endorsement

The most powerful narrative from Saturday at The Genesis Invitational emerged not on the fairways of Riviera, but from the broadcast booth. Tournament host Tiger Woods joined the telecast, offering a rare look into his recovery and, more importantly, delivering a stunning, real-time verdict on Jacob Bridgeman's ascendant performance.

While providing an update on his health following an October disc replacement surgery, Woods gave an honest assessment of his physical state. He admitted his ability to hit full shots "varies daily" and that his primary goal is building enough endurance to compete again, specifically targeting a potential return at the 2026 Masters.

The defining moment of the broadcast, however, came when Bridgeman hit a breathtaking 7-wood on the par-5 11th hole. His approach from 258 yards tracked the pin and settled just 8 inches from the cup for a tap-in eagle. Watching the replay, Woods bestowed the ultimate compliment, a quote that reverberated through the golf world: "I wish I could hit it like that."

That single sentence from the game's greatest icon served as a powerful anointment, validating Bridgeman's performance in a way no statistic could. It was a symbolic passing of the torch, as the 50-year-old Woods, now in a mentorship role, openly admired the talent of the "younger generation." He praised Bridgeman's blistering front-nine 33, underscoring his excitement for the game's future, even while watching from the sidelines. This moment transcended the leaderboard, connecting the sport's living legend to its potential next star.