Orlando, FL —
The PNC Playoff has been thrown into turmoil after tournament officials announced the suspension of Team Woods, following explosive allegations that Charlie Woods, son of golf legend Tiger Woods, fabricated a hole-in-one during Saturday’s round.
The shocking development unfolded just hours after the teenage prodigy’s seemingly flawless ace on the 7th hole went viral across social media, drawing praise from golf fans worldwide. But what began as a moment of triumph quickly spiraled into controversy when Team Daly and Team Langer formally lodged complaints, claiming that the shot “never actually went in.”
The incident that started it all
According to footage broadcast by the PNC’s coverage team, Charlie’s tee shot on the 173-yard par-3 at the Ritz-Carlton Golf Club appeared to land softly on the green, roll toward the cup, and disappear. The crowd erupted, and Tiger celebrated with his son in an emotional father–son embrace that seemed to cement the moment as one of golf’s most heartwarming highlights.
However, within hours, questions began to circulate online. A high-definition slow-motion replay released by a fan on X (formerly Twitter) appeared to show the ball skimming past the hole rather than dropping in. Moments later, a second ball could be seen on the green — leading some viewers to claim that a “switch” had taken place.
Formal complaints and chaos
Veteran competitors John Daly and his son, John Daly II, were among the first to raise objections, alleging that “a non-official ball” was placed in the hole before officials could verify the score. Shortly after, Team Langer, consisting of Bernhard Langer and his son Jason, backed the claim and requested an official review by the PNC Committee.
“Golf is built on integrity,” Bernhard Langer said in a post-round interview. “If we start bending that, the entire foundation of competition crumbles.”
Tournament director Chris McIntyre confirmed that an inquiry was launched late Saturday evening. “We’ve received multiple formal complaints regarding a potential scoring irregularity involving Team Woods,” McIntyre said. “In keeping with tournament policy, the team has been temporarily suspended pending investigation.”
Team Woods responds
In a brief statement released Sunday morning, Tiger Woods strongly denied any wrongdoing.
“These accusations are absolutely false,” the statement read. “Charlie’s shot was legitimate. The moment was witnessed by dozens of spectators and recorded by multiple cameras. We welcome a fair and transparent review.”
Sources close to the Woods family told ESPN that Tiger was “furious and deeply disappointed” by the allegations, describing them as “a targeted attempt to humiliate” his 16-year-old son.
Golf world reacts
Social media exploded with divided opinions. Supporters of the Woods family accused rival teams of jealousy and intimidation, while others urged calm until the review concludes. “It’s tragic if this is true, but sadder still if it’s not,” tweeted former PGA Tour champion Paul Azinger. “Either way, this casts a shadow over what’s supposed to be a family celebration of golf.”
As of Sunday evening, PNC officials confirmed that Team Woods’ scorecard for Round 2 has been placed under review, and their participation in the playoff round remains suspended until further notice.
What’s next
The investigation is expected to include video analysis, interviews with caddies and spectators, and ball-tracking data from tournament partners. Officials are expected to deliver a ruling before Monday morning’s final tee time.
Whether Team Woods will be cleared or face disqualification remains uncertain — but one thing is clear: a tournament meant to celebrate family bonds and fair play has descended into chaos, leaving the golf world anxiously awaiting answers.
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