Sutton Is Flawless Despite Specter of a Charging Woods

L.A. Times Archives

March 28, 2000 12 AM PT

From Associated Press

PONTE VEDRA BEACH, Fla. —

Hal Sutton saved his praise for Tiger Woods. He first wanted to make sure he defeated him in the Players Championship.

With steel-blue eyes that have seen as much trouble as triumph the last two decades, Sutton hit 17 of 18 greens on one of the most demanding courses for a one-stroke victory over Woods on Monday in a tournament delayed a day because of rain.

“He’s the greatest player in the game,” Sutton said of an opponent who pushed him to the final hole. “It’s OK to praise him now. I don’t have to go hit another shot with him out there.”

Sutton, who finished with a one-under-par 71 to finish at 278, became only the fourth player to go wire to wire in the Players Championship. The victory was worth $1.08 million, compared to the $126,000 prize he won in the same tournament 17 years ago.

Woods, who had a 71 to finish at 279, earned $648,000. Through seven events, he has won more than $3.2 million.

“I’ve won my share and I also lost,” Woods said. “But the key is always to keep putting yourself in position.”

Sutton had a point to prove, and he drove it home with a gritty, nearly flawless performance in which he closed with seven solid pars. And, on this day, even Woods was no match.

“Tiger Woods is not bigger than the game,” Sutton said.

All week, Sutton refused to believe Woods was unbeatable. He insisted the final round was not “Sutton vs. Woods,” but both players against a challenging course.

Still, for a player who won the PGA Championship at 25, then resurrected his career to become a Ryder Cup star at The Country Club in September, Sutton called his victory “the greatest day in my golfing life.”

“Any time you win on this golf course, you’ve had to overcome your nerves. You’ve had to show courage,” Sutton said.

Woods made it exciting.

Down three shots with three holes to play, Woods hit a five-iron within 12 feet on the par-five 16th and made the eagle putt.

Sutton’s lead suddenly was down to one, with two of the most terrorizing holes the Stadium Course has to offer. The par-three 17th played the easiest it has all week because of overnight rains and only a slight breeze.

Woods hit a wedge that spun back into the rough and had to make a six-footer to save par, while Sutton hit the middle of the green for a safe par.

On the 18th, Woods hit a two-iron to the fairway and, hitting first, watched his six-iron catch swale to the right of the green, ending his chances for a birdie.

(BEGIN TEXT OF INFOBOX / INFOGRAPHIC)

Top Finishers

$6-MILLION PLAYERS CHAMPIONSHIP

At Ponte Vedra Beach, Fla.

Par 72

Final 72-hole scores

278 (-10)--$1,080,000

Hal Sutton 69-69-69-71

279 (-9)--$648,000

Tiger Woods 71-71-66-71

284 (-4)--$270,600

Nick Price 73-71-73-67