In his latest work, “Project Tiger: The Birth of Genius and the Price of Greatness,”
Gavin Newsham delves into the early life of the golf icon to explore both
his athletic achievements and personal struggles.
“Tiger’s intricate and challenging sacrifices in his quest for greatness enabled him to attain remarkable success,” he notes,
“yet this very success rendered him dehumanized and ultimately unhappy.” Here’s a snippet.
Turning Point in Tiger’s Life
In the midst of his flourishing college golf tenure at Stanford, Tiger Woods experienced a significant disruption as
his four-year romance with his first love, Dina Gravell, abruptly ended. Dina was one of the few individuals outside
his close family whom he truly trusted.
Sudden Breakup
Their unexpected separation took place during the 1995 US Intercollegiate Golf Tournament Invitational in Palo Alto, California.
Tiger’s parents notably ignored Dina upon their arrival to support him, which she dismissed as a potential quarrel
between them.
Hospital Visit and Shock
On the second day of the tournament, after Tiger had to withdraw due to a shoulder injury and went for an MRI,
Dina returned to her hotel to await news. Five hours later, she received a call from reception notifying her of a
delivery: a case containing all her belongings left in Tiger’s room.
Heartbreaking Letter
Accompanying her belongings was a letter from Tiger. “Dina,” it read, “I am writing to inform you that my parents and I desire
to have no further contact with you… I hope your future is bright, but this decision is, in my view, justified. Sincerely, Tiger.”
A postscript further requested the return of a necklace he had given her, coupled with a warning not to attend the tournament.
Reflections from Earl Woods
Years later, Earl Woods reflected on his son’s love life during an interview, noting, “He had one girlfriend in school and one in college,
but I was concerned about her family’s motives.” While he opted for guidance over forbiddance, the controlling nature of his
parents was evident, highlighting Tiger’s unemotional and calculating behavior even at a young age.
Consequences of Tiger’s Choices
Post turning professional in 1996, Tiger returned home only to find former mentors and friends cut off from his life abruptly.
His agent, Hughes Norton, faced a similar fate after a Golf World article incensed Tiger. Summoning Norton, he unceremoniously
terminated their professional relationship, illustrating how quickly one could be pushed aside in “Project Tiger.”
Excerpted from “Project Tiger: The Birth of Genius and the Price of Greatness,” set to publish on March 17 by Diversion Books.
