Changes

Woods turned professional in 1996, the week after his third amateur victory, leaving behind a USGA match-play record of 62-3. His arrival into the play-for-pay ranks was the most highly anticipated of any player in history, and his impact was felt immediately. He made headlines with historic endorsement contracts with an athletic shoe manufacturer and a major golf equipment business. With his background, youth, good looks, and entertaining style of play, he became a fan favorite as well as a marketing sensation. His entry at tournaments attracted large galleries, some of whom had never before seen a golf course. But Woods soon proved he was more than a walking endorsement, winning twice in his first seven tournaments and earning $1 million in prize money in only nine tournaments, another record. He won numerous awards for his remarkable achievements. His outstanding play in just a short time led many to call him the best player in the world, a role with which Woods seemed comfortable.

Woods turned professional in 1996, the week after his third amateur victory, leaving behind a USGA match-play record of 62-3. His arrival into the play-for-pay ranks was the most highly anticipated of any player in history, and his impact was felt immediately. He made headlines with historic endorsement contracts with an athletic shoe manufacturer and a major golf equipment business. With his background, youth, good looks, and entertaining style of play, he became a fan favorite as well as a marketing sensation. His entry at tournaments attracted large galleries, some of whom had never before seen a golf course. But Woods soon proved he was more than a walking endorsement, winning twice in his first seven tournaments and earning $1 million in prize money in only nine tournaments, another record. He won numerous awards for his remarkable achievements. His outstanding play in just a short time led many to call him the best player in the world, a role with which Woods seemed comfortable.

Hunki Yun

'''Hunki Yun'''

Associate Editor of ''Golf Digest''

Associate Editor of ''Golf Digest''

[[Category:Golf]]

[[Category:Golf]]