American golf sensation Tiger Woods battled searing pain in his knee and a gruelling final play-off prompted by a level finish to claim his third US Open title. After sinking the shot that clinched him what he described as the best victory of his career, the gleaming trophy wasn't the first thing he reached for, however.
Overflowing with emotion, the 32-year-old sports star held out his arms to take his daughter Sam from his Swedish wife Elin. Tiger hugged the tot - who has a shock of dark blonde hair – and planted a victorious kiss on her cheek.
The tender family moment came as Tiger celebrated a comeback win in San Diego during his first competition since undergoing knee surgery in April. While sharing the special moment with his little girl - who turns one on Wednesday - his thoughts also turned to his late father and mentor Earl.
"I now know why my dad got so emotional… when I won," he said.
Photo: © Alphapress.com
Photo: © Alphapress.com
Photo: © Alphapress.com
