Charlie Woods Picks College, Stepping Out of Tiger’s Shadow

Charlie Woods is bound for Tallahassee.

The 17-year-old son of Tiger Woods announced Tuesday on Instagram that he has verbally committed to Florida State University and plans to join the Seminoles in the fall of 2027. For a player who has grown up under relentless attention, the decision represents more than just a college choice — it’s another step toward carving out his own identity in the game.

Earning It

Woods currently sits No. 21 in the Rolex AJGA Rankings, a reflection of steady progress that extends well beyond the made-for-TV moments at the PNC Championship. His résumé includes a victory at last year’s AJGA Team TaylorMade Invitational, proof he can deliver in elite junior fields.

At The Benjamin School in South Florida, Woods has been a central figure in the program’s success. Last fall he fired a team-best 68 during the state championship run, the kind of performance that resonates with college coaches and signals readiness for the next level.

A Program Built for Pros

Florida State, led by longtime coach Trey Jones, has developed a reputation as a launching pad to professional golf. Alumni such as Brooks Koepka and Daniel Berger emerged from Tallahassee before moving on to the PGA Tour, and the Seminoles finished ninth at last spring’s NCAA Championship — missing match play by a single shot.

Woods is also set to join an elite recruiting class that includes Miles Russell, the nation’s top-ranked junior, who committed to FSU last summer. On paper, it’s a pairing that could quickly elevate the Seminoles into national-title contention.

Tiger’s View

Tiger Woods has taken a measured approach to his son’s development and recruitment. Speaking last fall at the Hero World Challenge, he emphasized that Charlie’s opportunities are a product of his own performance.

“It’s fun to be a part of the process with Charlie and go through it and see where the opportunities that he has that he has created for himself,” Tiger said.

The official signing period won’t arrive until November, but the direction is clear. Charlie Woods is heading to Florida State — not simply as Tiger’s son, but as a rising prospect ready to build a legacy of his own.