Butch says Tiger risked legacy by playing US Open
Ex-coach Butch Harmon said Tiger Woods took a huge risk by playing the U.S. Open at Torrey Pines last June on his injured knee, according to an interview published in The Bangkok Post. Despite Woods’ imminent return to the PGA Tour, Harmon said Woods’ goal of surpassing Jack Nickalus’ record of 18 major wins will be in jeopardy if Woods doesn’t make a full recovery. (Woods has won 14 major championships.)
Harmon, who was fired by Woods in 2002 after coaching Tiger for 10 years, said Woods took a huge risk in playing through the pain barrier last June, undergoing knee surgery a week later, although he expected his former pupil to make a full recovery.
"We hope that what he did by playing at the US Open with a broken bone and a problem with the cartilage in his knee, we hope that doesn't take away his chances to win it (the record), but we don't know," Harmon said in an interview.
"We'll have to wait and see. It's either the most phenomenal feat ever in the game of golf or not a very smart thing if he played and he doesn't come back healthy," he added.
"I'm of the belief that he's going to be fine, he's going to be stronger than ever. The game needs him back and we all want to see him back."
Harmon also said Woods would probably have to change his swing in the future to relieve pressure on his left knee. Still, Harmon wouldn’t bet against his old boss.
"I would think so [that Woods would make a swing change], to be honest with you. It's the fourth operation on the same knee and this is the most extensive that they had to do," he said. "But then again he's Tiger Woods—he's the greatest player that's ever walked on this planet."
Posted by: james udesky | Feb 14, 2009 4:37:37 PM
One thing being overlooked is that the comments were published in the Bangkok Post, home of Tiger's mother Tida. Of course, the No. 1 story line is TW. And everything Butch says is praising the greatest. I don't see this as a negative or a Butch grab for 15 minutes of more fame. Can't a guy speak his mind after a lifetime of involvement in the sport. How about H.Aaron saying the HR record is Bonds to stay. No use turning back the clock, although a valued and hallowed record it is indeed. Go Tiger. On to 15 and beyond.
Posted by: Randle Simtes | Feb 13, 2009 2:56:04 PM
Bob Jones would give up everything he has had and will have to change places with the tiger.
Make all the (titles compared) you what, Tiger wins, and will continue to win, Bob?
Posted by: Tom | Feb 13, 2009 1:22:15 PM
what a weird guy... stop talking about tiger butch.. let it go. move on with your life.
Posted by: O | Feb 13, 2009 12:17:17 PM
You guys are priceless. Does everyone forget about VJ’s caddie wearing a hat stating “Tiger Who?” The implication is clear. Did he get fired. Give me a break. Whiney Phil is showing why he does not have the…to win! Let your clubs do the talking.
Posted by: bob | Feb 13, 2009 8:28:19 AM
butch needs a reality show on VH1 or something so he will be happy
Posted by: Gary | Feb 13, 2009 6:08:40 AM
Whenever I see Butch I see a merchant not a golf coach.
Posted by: isidro garcia | Feb 12, 2009 9:07:25 PM
Butch just wants to stay in the news. His present pupils need him now, Especially Phil.
Posted by: Keith Barkley | Feb 12, 2009 7:57:46 PM
Butch needs to stop worrying about Tiger and needs to worry about Phil, Ernie and Adam. He is still bitter, why does he still worry about Tiger's swing, that is Hank's job now. He is worried about Tiger passing the 8 majors that he won with Butch. Also, Butch's clients have not won a major since Tiger won @ Beth Page in 2002.
Posted by: Ken | Feb 12, 2009 6:27:39 PM
Who gives a sorry hoot what Butch Harmon thinks about Tiger Woods and his ability to kick the butts of every Butch Harmon pupil on tour?
Posted by: Blair | Feb 12, 2009 4:40:26 PM
That's original,Butch, I think just about everyone who watched Tiger limp and grit his teeth through every shot at last years US Open has the same thought....greatest performance ever or not very smart. But hey, Phil looks like he's in pain just trying to make a cut.
Posted by: Billy | Feb 12, 2009 2:14:10 PM
Butchy, Butchy, sounds like Butch has a need to try and grab 15 mins of fame, by speaking Tiger's name. Hey Butch, I think I hear Mickelson calling you.
Posted by: Norm | Feb 12, 2009 2:00:44 PM
Bob Jones was the greatest player that's ever walked on this planet.
Posted by: DG | Feb 12, 2009 1:24:27 PM
I agree with the other comments, sour grapes once again from the ex-coach. Hey, Butchy, instead of making bitter comments about Tiger, hows about getting Micks game out of the ditch?
Posted by: Chris | Feb 12, 2009 1:06:21 PM
sorry Raul - you are not a Paul obviously;)
Posted by: Chris | Feb 12, 2009 1:04:55 PM
You are totally right Paul!
Posted by: Raul | Feb 12, 2009 11:58:24 AM
Butch sound (again) like a bitter guy who got fired!! He need move on....