Kultida Punsawad Woods, the mother of golf icon Tiger Woods and a key player in one of sports’ most impressive journeys, passed away in Florida on February 4, 2025, at the age of 80 (some sources say between 78 and 81).
The news of her death was shared by Tiger Woods on his social media platforms. He referred to her as “a force of nature” and his “greatest fan and supporter,” adding that her guidance was crucial to his accomplishments.
Kultida Punsawad, born in Thailand, crossed paths with Earl Woods while she was a civilian secretary at the U.S. Army office in Bangkok during the Vietnam War. Their union in 1968 facilitated her move to the United States. The couple settled in Cypress, California and soon welcomed their only child, Eldrick “Tiger” Woods.
Affectionately known as “Tida,” Kultida was instrumental in Tiger’s early golfing career. She not only drove him to junior tournaments across California and walked every hole but also ensured he maintained academic standards alongside his golfing endeavors. Her disciplined approach was key in shaping Tiger’s mindset, leading him to 82 PGA TOUR victories and 15 major titles.
One of Kultida’s contributions to golf tradition was Tiger’s well-known Sunday red outfit. “She thought that being born a Capricorn, that red was my power color,” Tiger shared. This motherly insight became a symbol of dominance throughout his career, as he secured 41 victories wearing red on Sundays.
Following her husband’s death in 2006 due to cancer, Kultida moved from Orange County, California, to Jupiter, Florida, strengthening her relationship with Tiger and his expanding family. She built a close bond with her grandchildren, Sam Alexis (born in 2007) and Charlie Axel (born in 2009), even attending Charlie’s junior golf tournaments just as she had with Tiger years prior.
Kultida’s strict yet loving approach became legendary within golf circles. Despite his worldwide fame, Tiger frequently stated that he remained quite intimidated by her. She established treasured traditions, one being to gift Tiger a new tiger head cover for his driver annually, which started during his amateur career.
Kultida was present for every major event in Tiger’s extraordinary career. From his professional debut at the 1996 Greater Milwaukee Open, his pioneering 1997 Masters victory, to his completion of the “Tiger Slam” in 2001. She stood by him in difficult times, including his struggles in 2009-2010, and celebrated his triumphant comeback victory at the 2019 Masters.
Apart from golf, Kultida was deeply involved in philanthropy through the TGR Foundation, serving as a board member. Since its establishment in 1996, the foundation has positively impacted over two million students through educational programs. Kultida was especially passionate about supporting underserved youth, drawing inspiration from her personal journey as an immigrant in America.
Kultida’s final years were characterized by an unwavering commitment to her family and golf. She was present at Tiger’s induction into the World Golf Hall of Fame in 2022, where he recognized her as the most steadfast and supportive figure a child could have. Her last public appearance was a week prior to her death, watching Tiger participate in a TGL indoor league match in Florida.
While Earl Woods is often credited for shaping Tiger’s golf game, Kultida’s influence was equally significant. Tiger stressed that his mother “doesn’t get enough credit” as she remained a steady supporter “through thick and thin” from his first junior tournament to his 82nd PGA TOUR victory at the 2019 ZOZO Championship in Japan.
Beyond Tiger’s accomplishments, Kultida’s impact on golf as a whole was significant. She emerged as a respected figure in the sport, known for her forthright demeanor and unwavering principles. During Tiger’s most successful years, from 1999 to 2010, when he held the World No. 1 ranking for 545 consecutive weeks, Kultida was a constant presence, ensuring her son remained grounded and true to his values.