Tiger Woods explains why the Genesis Invitational was relocated to Torrey Pines due to California wildfires and how the event will support recovery efforts.
Tiger Woods admitted that moving The Genesis Invitational to Torrey Pines Golf Course in San Diego was a tough decision due to the impact of California wildfires.
The tournament was originally set to take place at Riviera Country Club in Los Angeles’ Pacific Palisades, one of the areas hit hardest by the fires. However, the course was not ready to host the Feb. 13-16 event, which is hosted by Woods and his foundation.
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Why the Tournament Was Moved
After his Jupiter Links Golf Club team won an overtime match in TGL action on Monday, Woods spoke about the decision:
“The meeting we had was very difficult with the Watanabes (Riviera CC’s owners). Riv is just not ready. We want to stay on the West Coast, and it narrowed those options down to possibly up near Pebble or to Phoenix or to Vegas or to San Diego or to Palm Springs. There were so many different options out on the table, and we were trying to be understanding to all the victims that these fires have caused, has brought to them.”
Woods, who was born and raised in Southern California, emphasized the importance of keeping the event in the region.
“The fact that we were able to, with the city of San Diego, were able to stay within Southern California, with respect to the difficulties in LA, I think it’s important that we were able to stay in Southern California because everyone who was born and raised out in Southern Cal can all relate to the fires. It’s a difficult situation, and we want to be very sensitive to that.”
Torrey Pines: A Fitting Alternative
Torrey Pines has been a PGA Tour stop since 1968 and recently hosted the Farmers Insurance Open. It also has a rich history, hosting the 2008 U.S. Open, where Woods famously won, and the 2021 U.S. Open, won by Jon Rahm.
Future Plans for Riviera
The PGA Tour confirmed that The Genesis Invitational will return to Riviera in 2026. The course is also set to host golf events at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
Woods believes that keeping the tournament in Southern California will help with relief efforts:
“I think because we’re in Southern California, I think we’re going to be able to raise more money for all the losses that have incurred.”
While the move was difficult, the new location ensures the tournament can still go on while supporting those affected by the wildfires.
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