“He’s a ‘former’ golfer…age is against him…he will never win a major tournament again”
These are just a few of the comments that have been made in the past by sports commentators and pundits alike about Tiger Woods.
Fast forward…and having won his first major tournament since scandal and injury, those same pundits’ comments have changed significantly:
“Greatest comeback in sports history…the greatest sportsman of the modern era….he is the Tiger Woods of old”
Where was this backing, this BELIEF when he needed it the most? In fact, the belief came from the only man who really mattered…Tiger himself.
Having had his personal life splashed across the media for all the wrong reasons, subsequent injuries and back pain made his prospects of ever winning another championship seem almost non-existent.
Whilst it’s perhaps understandable that people wrote him off, what’s important is that the one person who didn’t write him off was Tiger Woods himself. He believed his abilities were enough and coupled with his determination he was strong enough to overcome the physical and mental trials of the previous years. Even with such talent, he is the perfect example of how ability is not enough and is perhaps second to the need for grit, determination and stamina, especially when you’re down and out… no guts no glory!
For anyone who may be going through a tough time, you can seek inspiration from this story. If you feel you may have been written off by other people…IT DOESN’T MATTER. In fact, let the naysayers be your inspiration to prove them wrong. What matters is the belief you have in yourself, the strength you have within yourself and your determination to overcome your struggle and rise up again. It is this personal belief and by never giving up, that you will get back to where you want to be. Refuse to give up on your dreams, never ever quit. Whatever life throws at you, you can always get back to where you want to be if you are determined enough.
Have a look at the Nike advert published after Tiger’s win – one of the few companies that stuck by him, even in the darker days:
You’re never too old to chase the same dreams you had as child …
After all, a down is just a stay for a comeback! So…
Just Do It!