Tiger matches Nicklaus’ record of PGA victories

TIGER Woods sent out an ominous warning ahead of the US Open after winning the Memorial Tournament in Ohio.

Woods produced some of the old magic to match Jack Nicklaus’ career tally of 73 PGA Tour wins with his fifth victory at the Memorial.

Woods’ five-under 67 gave him a two-stroke winning margin over Rory Sabbatini and Andres Romero on nine under overall.

Woods looked like his old self as he produced a defining shot, and celebration, at the 16th, holing out from off the green for birdie.

Flopping the ball out of a difficult lie on to the near edge of the putting surface, Woods watched the ball roll dead weight into the right edge of the hole.

His fist-pumping roar of delight rolled back the years, and was soon followed by a calm raise of the club after a birdie putt on the 18th which he knew had taken him out of reach of the chasing Sabbatini.

“I hit the ball great,” Woods said.

“What’s so exciting was I didn’t really miss a golf shot.

“I hit the ball just as good as I have in years.

“That was fun when I needed it the most.”