Tiger Woods is facing scrutiny for discreetly handing Justin Thomas a tampon after outdriving his playing partner at the Genesis Invitational.<\/span><\/p>\n It occurred as the Americans walked off the ninth tee, with Thomas laughing and then dropping the tampon on the floor.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n The incident drew a mixed response on social media with some criticising 15-time major champion Woods.<\/span><\/p>\n The 47-year-old is playing in his first competitive PGA Tour event since missing the cut at The Open in July.<\/span><\/p>\n He was in a group with PGA Championship winner Thomas and four-time major winner Rory McIlroy.<\/span><\/p>\n Woods, who badly injured his right leg and foot in a car accident two days after this tournament in 2021, carded a two-under-par 69 to finish five shots behind leaders Keith Mitchell and Max Homa <\/span>after the first round<\/span><\/a> of the event he is hosting at the Riviera Country Club, California.<\/span><\/p>\n Both Woods and Thomas have been involved in controversial incidents in their careers before.<\/span><\/p>\n In 2021, Thomas apologised for using a homophobic slur during <\/span>the third round of the Sentry Tour of Champions in Hawaii.<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n Woods was involved in a car crash in November 2009 which eventually led to admissions of infidelity and the breakdown of his marriage. He then took a break from golf but returned shortly afterwards.<\/span><\/p>\n In 2017 Woods was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence when he was found asleep at the wheel of his car. He later pleaded guilty to reckless driving.<\/span><\/p>\n![\"Tiger](\"https:\/\/ichef.bbci.co.uk\/onesport\/cps\/624\/cpsprodpb\/17710\/production\/_128661069_woods.jpg\")
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