Charlie Woods Chooses Florida State Over Stanford — A New Legacy in the Making?
Tallahassee, Florida: Charlie Woods, the 17-year-old son of golf legend Tiger Woods, has officially committed to Florida State University (FSU) for college golf, choosing not to follow his father’s iconic path to Stanford University — a decision that has sparked widespread discussion across the golfing world.
Announced on February 10, 2026, during his birthday week, Charlie’s commitment signals a clear intent to build his own identity in golf, rather than living under the weight of Tiger Woods’ legacy .
Currently a junior at The Benjamin School in Palm Beach, Florida, Charlie will join FSU’s Class of 2027, staying close to home — a factor that reportedly played a key role in his decision . He is ranked No. 21 in the Rolex American Junior Golf Association (AJGA) Rankings, and his junior résumé continues to grow.
Recent Highlights:
Won the AJGA Team TaylorMade Invitational in May 2025
Finished Top 10 at the Junior PGA Championship
Shot a team-best 68 to help his school win the Florida 1A State Championships.
Unlike Tiger Woods — who played at Stanford from 1994 to 1996 before turning professional — Charlie is choosing a fresh direction, emphasizing comfort, patience, and long-term development .
Reflecting on the evolving recruitment process, Tiger Woods previously noted:
“It’s been very different… how fast coaches can communicate now.”
With Florida State also recruiting top-ranked junior Miles Russell, Charlie joins a rising powerhouse that could reshape the future of collegiate golf .
