For Cheyenne Woods, golf has always been more than just a sport—it’s a connection to her family, her roots, and a grandfather who believed in her long before she believed in herself.
The 33-year-old pro golfer recently opened up about a deeply personal and emotional memory involving her grandfather, Earl Woods Sr., the late father of Tiger Woods.
In a heartfelt conversation on the Welcome to the Par-tee podcast with Tisha Alyn, Cheyenne shared how a letter written decades ago became a symbol of unwavering support and foresight.
A Letter from the Past
Cheyenne, who was born in Phoenix, Arizona, is the daughter of Earl Dennison Woods Jr., making her Tiger Woods’ half-niece.
Her grandfather, Earl Sr., was not just a mentor to Tiger—he also played a pivotal role in shaping Cheyenne’s early golf career.
But it wasn’t until years after his passing in 2006 that she discovered just how much he had believed in her potential.
During the podcast, Cheyenne recounted a moment from her childhood when her grandfather mentioned that he had written an official scouting report about her for IMG, a leading sports management company.
At the time, she was only four or five years old and had no idea what it meant.
“He told me, ‘One day, when you turn pro, IMG will come find you, and they’ll bring the letter with them,’” Cheyenne recalled.
Years later, after graduating from Wake Forest and officially turning pro in 2012, that moment came full circle.
IMG indeed approached her—with the very letter her grandfather had written all those years ago.
A Message That Changed Everything
Opening the letter, written in Earl Woods Sr.’s elegant cursive handwriting, was an overwhelming experience for Cheyenne.
The words on the page weren’t just observations about her swing or technical ability—they were filled with belief, encouragement, and a vision of the future that her grandfather had foreseen long before she had even picked up a club seriously.
“He wrote that he saw me playing on tour, that he recognized my potential from such a young age,” she shared.
“When you have someone in your corner who believes in you, you start to believe it too.
That’s what has always driven me, not just in golf but in life.”
The letter now sits framed in her home, a daily reminder of the faith her grandfather had in her and the legacy she continues to build in professional golf.
The Legacy of Earl Woods Sr.
Earl Woods Sr. was more than just the father of one of the greatest golfers in history—he was a man who saw potential in those around him and nurtured it.
Having served in the Vietnam War, he was known for his discipline, wisdom, and ability to inspire.
His influence shaped not only Tiger’s career but also Cheyenne’s, proving that his love for the game—and for his family—was boundless.
Though Earl Sr. passed away in 2006, his impact is still felt today.
His former wife, Kultida Woods, remained a steadfast supporter of Tiger and his family until her passing in February 2025 at the age of 81.
A Time of Transition for the Woods Family
As Cheyenne continues to honor her grandfather’s memory, Tiger Woods himself has been navigating major life changes.
Earlier this year, he shared the heartbreaking news of his mother’s passing, calling her “his biggest fan and greatest supporter.”
Despite the sorrow, Tiger also revealed some uplifting news—his new relationship with Vanessa Trump.
The legendary golfer made the announcement via social media, sharing affectionate photos with the caption: “Love is in the air, and life is better with you by my side.”
Moving Forward with Strength
For Cheyenne, her journey in golf remains fueled by the deep family connections that first brought her to the sport.
From the letter her grandfather wrote to the lessons he taught her as a child, his presence continues to guide her, reminding her that she was always meant to be exactly where she is today.
“I’ll never forget what he did for me,” she said.
“It’s moments like these that make me realize just how much love and belief can shape a person’s future.”