Golf fans have expressed their shock after realising that Tiger Woods is not the real name of the American golf star.

Woods, 49, is one of the finest golf players to grace the sport throughout its history, winning 15 majors since turning professional in 1996.

But while fans will be familiar with his illustrious list of achievements, it appears that some are not so clued up regarding his actual name.

Taking to X, formerly Twitter, users expressed their surprise on finding out his 𝐛𝐢𝐫𝐭𝐡 name.

One user wrote: ‘Just found out Tiger Woods’ first name isn’t Tiger, I’m about to throw up’.

A second posted: ‘I was today years old when I realized that Tiger Woods’ real name isn’t Tiger Woods’.

Golf fans have expressed their shock after realising that Tiger Woods is not the real name of the American golf star

Woods, 49, is one of the finest golf players to grace the sport throughout its history, winning 15 majors since turning professional in 1996

Another exclaimed: ‘What do you mean his name isn’t really Tiger Woods’.

Woods’ actual full name is Eldrick Tont Woods, with Tiger being a nickname that has stuck permanently in reference to the golf star.

He was originally given the moniker of Tiger in honour of his father’s friend, South Vietnamese Colonel Vuong Dang Phong, who had also been known as Tiger.

Woods’ father, Earl, met Colonel Vuong Dang Phong while serving for the US Army during the Vietnam War.

Earl retired from active military duty in 1974 with the rank of lieutenant colonel.

Woods’ mother, Kutilda, died earlier this month at the age of 80.

Taking to X, formerly Twitter , users expressed their surprise on finding out his 𝐛𝐢𝐫𝐭𝐡 name

She saw him win the Masters as a 21-year-old in 1997 and stood by him during his downfall from 2009’s 𝓈ℯ𝓍 scandal that cost him his first marriage and millions in endorsement deals.

Woods said in a statement: ‘It is with heartfelt sadness that I want to share that my dear mother, Kultida Woods, passed away early this morning.

‘My Mom was a force of nature all her own, her spirit was simply undeniable. She was quick with the needle and a laugh. She was my biggest fan, greatest supporter, without her none of my personal achievements would have been possible.

‘She was loved by so many, but especially by her two grand𝘤𝘩𝘪𝘭𝘥ren, Sam and Charlie. Thank you all for your support, prayers and privacy at this difficult time for me and my family. Love you Mom.’