Tiger Woods says he was snubbed by Brooks Koepka after begging world No 1 for Open practice round

TIGER WOODS has revealed he was snubbed by Brooks Koepka after begging the world No 1 for an Open practice round. Players used to queue up for the chance to play alongside Masters champion Woods, 43, in the run-up to the game’s biggest tournaments. But the tide was turned when Woods texted four-time Major winner […]

TIGER WOODS has revealed he was snubbed by Brooks Koepka after begging the world No 1 for an Open practice round.

Players used to queue up for the chance to play alongside Masters champion Woods, 43, in the run-up to the game’s biggest tournaments.

But the tide was turned when Woods texted four-time Major winner Koepka, 29, asking if he fancied a knock at Royal Portrush.

Koepka – who claimed his fourth big one when he defended the USPGA Championship in May – employs caddie Ricky Elliott, who is from Portrush and knows the course better than anyone.

But Woods’ plea was totally ignored by Koepka, who didn’t even bother to text the 15-time Major hero back.

Asked if he had been in touch with his compatriot for any insider info on the course this week, Woods said: “No, I have not. But I’ll tell you a funny story.

“I texted Brooksie, congratulations on another great finish. What he’s done in the last four Major championships has been just unbelievable.

“To be so consistent, so solid. He’s been in contention to win each and every Major Championship.

“And I said, ‘hey, dude, do you mind if I tag along and play a practice round?’

“I’ve heard nothing.”

Woods let out a big smile when admitting the snub. And it was some light relief at his expense after he defended his limited playing schedule, which he said he is doing so that he can play for longer.

The American, who said his game is not in great shape, has not played since last month’s US Open and continues to nurse his surgically repaired back.

His decision not to play much has prompted criticism for former Ryder Cup captain Paul McGinley.

But with an eye on the future, Woods said: “This year I made a conscious effort to cut back on my schedule to make sure that I don’t play too much.

“I want to play here as long as I possibly can. And you have to understand, if I play a lot, I won’t be out here that long.

“So it’s understanding how much I can play, prepping how much I do at home and getting ready.

“And that’s the tricky part is trying to determine how much tournament play I need to get the feel for the shots and also understanding where my body is.”