Fred Couples, one of golf’s most beloved and respected figures, recently shared his thoughts on a topic that has sparked endless debate over the years: Who is the greatest golfer of all time? Without hesitation, Couples, a Hall of Famer in his own right, gave his answer—Tiger Woods. And coming from someone as admired in the sport as Couples, this acknowledgment means more than just a headline. It’s a genuine, heartfelt tribute to the man who has redefined the game of golf.

A Friendship Forged on the Fairways

Fred Couples and Tiger Woods have shared countless rounds of golf together, from the early days of Tiger’s meteoric rise to his legendary victories on the PGA Tour. Their relationship goes beyond mere competition; it’s built on mutual respect, admiration, and a deep understanding of what it takes to be great in a sport as challenging as golf.

For Couples, who turned professional in 1980 and became known for his smooth swing and effortless style, witnessing Tiger’s emergence was nothing short of extraordinary. By the time Woods burst onto the scene in the late ’90s, Couples was already a seasoned pro and a major champion. Yet, even with all his experience, Couples found himself awestruck by Woods’ talent, drive, and the sheer dominance he displayed as he took the golfing world by storm.

“There’s No One Like Tiger”

In a recent interview, Couples didn’t mince words when asked about Tiger Woods’ place in the history of golf. “There’s no one like Tiger,” Couples said. “He’s the greatest of all time. No one else has changed the game the way he has.” Coming from someone who has seen—and competed against—the very best the sport has to offer, this is no small statement.

Couples is known for his calm demeanor, both on and off the course. He’s not the type to make hyperbolic claims or speak out of emotion. When he says that Woods is the greatest, it’s based on years of firsthand experience and deep respect for what Tiger has accomplished. And it’s not just about Tiger’s victories—though his 15 majors and 82 PGA Tour wins are staggering on their own—it’s about the way he’s transformed the game.

A Revolutionary Force

When Fred Couples talks about Tiger Woods, he’s not just speaking of numbers and statistics; he’s referring to the revolutionary impact Tiger has had on the sport. Couples watched as Woods changed the very fabric of golf, bringing unprecedented athleticism, intensity, and focus to a game that had long been dominated by tradition. Tiger’s arrival wasn’t just a breath of fresh air—it was a whirlwind that left everyone scrambling to catch up.

Couples was there when Tiger’s dominance began, when courses started being “Tiger-proofed” because his power and precision were simply overwhelming the traditional layouts. He saw how Tiger’s presence transcended golf, drawing in millions of new fans from around the world, changing the perception of golf as an elite, quiet sport, and turning it into a global spectacle.

“It wasn’t just about how he played,” Couples remarked. “It was how he made everyone else want to be better. He raised the bar so high, and we all had to step up our game.”

Mutual Respect and Lasting Impact

One of the most touching aspects of Couples’ tribute to Tiger Woods is the mutual respect that flows between them. While Woods has often credited Couples for his influence and friendship, Couples, in turn, has praised Woods for not only his prowess on the course but his character off it.

Even during Woods’ well-publicized struggles—whether due to injuries or personal issues—Couples has stood by him, emphasizing that greatness isn’t just about winning; it’s about resilience. “Tiger’s ability to come back, time and time again, that’s what makes him special,” Couples noted. “He’s had every reason to quit, to walk away, but he doesn’t. That’s the mark of a true champion.”

For Fred Couples, who has seen the sport evolve through decades, Woods’ 2019 Masters win was particularly moving. “It was unbelievable,” Couples said. “To see him come back from all the surgeries and the doubts, to win that tournament—there was nothing like it. That was Tiger reminding the world who he is.”

A Champion Who Redefined Golf

What sets Tiger apart, according to Couples, isn’t just his skill. It’s his ability to inspire others and make them believe in the impossible. Couples speaks for many when he says that Woods’ impact goes far beyond the sport of golf. From his youth programs that introduce underprivileged kids to golf, to his ability to bring fans of all ages to the sport, Tiger’s influence is immeasurable.

“Golf will never see another Tiger Woods,” Couples said with certainty. “He’s one of a kind. He didn’t just win, he dominated. And more than that, he inspired people—on and off the course. That’s what greatness is.”

A Personal Tribute from a Fellow Legend

For fans, hearing Fred Couples praise Tiger Woods as the greatest golfer of all time is deeply meaningful because Couples himself is such a revered figure. Known for his smooth, graceful swing and his calm under pressure, Couples has been a beloved figure in golf for decades. His words carry weight, especially when talking about someone like Woods, who he’s known personally for years.

But what makes this tribute even more special is the personal connection between the two. It’s not just one legend acknowledging another—it’s a heartfelt recognition from a friend, a competitor, and a mentor who has witnessed the evolution of Tiger Woods from a talented prodigy to the greatest golfer the world has ever seen.

For Fred Couples, there’s no doubt. Tiger Woods is, and always will be, the greatest. And coming from a man of his stature, there’s no higher praise.