Is Tiger Woods A-List?
Yes — Tiger Woods is above A-list, ranked S tier as an icon with generational cultural impact.
Reached A-list in 1997
Masters victory at 21
Lost A-list status in 2017
Dropped to B tier — DUI arrest, back surgery
Ranking Timeline
Turns professional at 20
Woods turns professional after a stellar amateur career, immediately signing massive endorsement deals with Nike and Titleist. His arrival generates unprecedented excitement in professional golf.
Masters victory at 21
Woods wins his first major championship at the Masters by a record 12 strokes, becoming the youngest Masters champion. This historic victory establishes him as golf's next superstar and cultural phenomenon.
Tiger Slam dominance begins
Woods wins the U.S. Open by 15 strokes and begins his 'Tiger Slam' of four consecutive major championships. His dominance is absolute, and he becomes the highest-paid athlete in the world.
U.S. Open win on injured knee
Woods wins the U.S. Open in a playoff despite a torn ACL and fractured leg, cementing his legendary toughness. This victory brings his major total to 14, but injuries begin to take their toll.
Sex scandal destroys public image
Woods' infidelity scandal erupts, leading to divorce and loss of major endorsements. His carefully crafted image is shattered, and he takes an indefinite leave from golf.
Returns to world number one
Woods wins five PGA Tour events and reclaims the world number one ranking, showing signs of recovery. However, he still cannot capture an elusive 15th major championship.
DUI arrest, back surgery
Woods is arrested for DUI and undergoes spinal fusion surgery, his fourth back operation. Many believe his competitive career is over as he plummets in world rankings.
Miraculous Masters comeback victory
Woods wins the 2019 Masters in one of sports' greatest comebacks, his first major in 11 years. The victory restores his iconic status and proves his enduring greatness.
Severe car accident injuries
Woods suffers serious leg injuries in a single-car accident, requiring emergency surgery with rods and pins. His competitive future becomes uncertain, though he remains a cultural icon.
Global icon, golf legend
Woods remains one of the most recognizable athletes in the world despite limited competitive play. His impact on golf is immeasurable, having transformed the sport's popularity, diversity, and financial landscape forever.
Last updated: February 23, 2026