Tiger Woods’ Son Charlie Knocked Out Of U.S. Junior Amateur After iPhone Camera Distraction

Charlie Woods, the son of golf legend Tiger Woods, suffered a heartbreaking exit from the U.S. Junior Amateur Championship after an iPhone camera shutter appeared to distract him during a crucial playoff shot.

The 17-year-old was competing in a 14-for-2 playoff on Wednesday, July 22, for the final places in the tournament’s 64-player match-play bracket. According to The Athletic, a phone camera shutter sounded just as Charlie prepared for his third shot on a par-5 hole after attempting to reach the green in two.

The distraction appeared to affect his concentration, and he went on to make a bogey, missing out on a place in the match-play stage and ending his tournament run.

Charlie, who recently committed to play college golf at Florida State University, has been guided closely by his father throughout his development and recruitment.

Speaking to Golfweek in December 2025, Tiger Woods reflected on how much the college recruitment process has changed since his own playing days.

“We didn’t have cell phones,” Tiger said. “We would have written letters that would show up in the mailbox. ‘Oh, my God, I got a letter.’”

He added that today’s technology allows coaches to communicate with players and their families almost instantly.

“It’s just very different, how fast coaches can communicate with the family members and the player that they’re trying to recruit. It’s just a different world. Not saying it’s good or bad, it’s just different.”

Tiger also said he has enjoyed being involved in Charlie’s journey, describing the experience of exploring college opportunities together as rewarding.

Charlie currently attends The Benjamin School in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, where he plays on the varsity golf team. He is expected to graduate in 2027 before beginning his collegiate golf career at Florida State.