The former world No1 had to remember how to celebrate this week, after he won the Chevron World Challenge.

His fighting spirit seemed to be back at last, after he birdied the last two holes to overtake Zach Johnson and win by one shot.

After winning the Australian Masters in November 2009, Woods’ career took a steep nose dive. From being regarded by many as the best player to ever play the game, he was suddenly a regular golfer who failed to make the halfway cut at many tournaments. Personal problems and a divorce, as well as constant attention from the media throughout, meant that Woods became a shadow of his former self. A string of injuries also led to lots of time away from the game and missed tournaments.

Up until two years ago, it looked a certainty that Woods would pass Jack Nicklaus’ record of 18 major titles, but he is still stuck on 14 and hasn’t won one since 2008.

“It just felt normal,” said Woods. “I know it’s been a while since I won but, for some reason, it feels like it hasn’t. When the pressure was on the last two holes, I hit three of the best shots I hit all week.”