Tiger Woods Makes a Request He’ll Follow — and Suggests Everyone Do This Before Every Match to Remember the Pope. Fans’ Reaction Is Surprising Because…

In a quiet yet deeply powerful gesture, golf icon Tiger Woods has made a request that’s resonating far beyond the fairways. Following the recent passing of His Holiness the Pope, Woods shared that he will personally pause in silent prayer before every tournament round — and he’s encouraging fellow players and fans around the world to do the same.

“I may not be the most traditional religious man,” Woods said during a press conference at Augusta National, “but I believe in showing respect. This Pope stood for peace, forgiveness, and humility — things we all need more of, in sport and in life.”

Woods said the idea came to him during a morning walk on the course. “I realized that the silence before a swing — that moment of stillness — is the perfect time to reflect. So now, before every match, I’ll bow my head, take a breath, and say thank you for leaders like him.”

What surprised many wasn’t Tiger’s personal tribute — it was how quickly fans and fellow athletes embraced it

At his next tournament, observers noticed something subtle but significant. As Woods stepped to the first tee, he stood still for a moment, hand over his heart, head lowered. Within seconds, the gallery of fans around him followed suit, some closing their eyes, others quietly whispering prayers of their own.

Social media lit up with praise.

“I teared up watching Tiger,” one fan tweeted. “It wasn’t about religion. It was about respect.”

Another wrote: “Golf is a game of silence and focus. Tiger just gave that silence deeper meaning.”

Even players who had never met the Pope said they felt the significance. One young pro posted: “That moment before tee-off — it’s sacred in golf. Tiger’s made it even more so. I’m doing the same this weekend.”

Woods made clear that he wasn’t trying to start a movement — only to inspire a moment. But with such a graceful and universal message, his quiet act has grown into something truly unifying.

“Sometimes,” Woods said with a small smile, “the greatest power is in the pause.”