DBC Rewind: Lefty holds off late surge by Tiger
2007 marked a new milestone for the Deutsche Bank Championship. It was the first year that the championship was included as part of the PGA TOUR FedExCup Playoffs. The DBC is the second of four playoff events and routinely draws large crowds of spectators to partake in the Labor Day festivities.
With such dedicated and involved fans, the atmosphere was electric. During his post-championship interview, Tiger Woods acknowledged the notable difference in the crowd.
“I’ll tell you, it’s one of the rowdiest tournaments — obviously, the people here really support their sport. They come out — ever since our first year here — they have been fantastic. This is what makes the tournament.”
He then went on to add, “But I think what really makes the tournament is the fans. The fans come out and really drive this event. I know Deutsche Bank has been the sponsor, but the fans come out and really support it. It’s been a great atmosphere from Day 1.”
Tiger wasn’t the only pro to comment on the crowd.
“It was an electrifying crowd,” Phil Mickelson said. “There were so many people that came out to support this event. We just as players certainly appreciate that.”
The 2007 championship showcased Tiger, Mickelson and Arron Oberholser competing for the victory. With strong play by all competitors in earlier rounds, the showdown between the three quickly intensified. In the end, Mickelson defeated both Tiger and Oberholser to take home the sought-after Wedgwood Trophy.
Due to his past record against Tiger, Mickelson agreed that this win meant more to him.
“I think it does, yeah,” Mickelson said. “I think that he [Tiger] was making a charge there in the end, and to be able to stand up on 16 after he knocked it close and follow it with a birdie of my own, knock it inside of him to finish with a couple birdies coming in to win, it feels terrific.”
As the 2015 Deutsche Bank Championship draws closer, the hunt for the Wedgewood Trophy heats up. Ensure you’re part of history, and join us at the 2015 Deutsche Bank Championship, where champions play on Labor Day.
