But major championships have had Tiger Woods by the tail.

"Golf-wise it's been pretty good, but not great," is how Woods described his year this week at the 89th PGA Championship at Southern Hills Country Club. "I just think the major championships are valued that highly, and I've come close. Just haven't got it done yet."

After winning the final two majors last year, including a five-shot win at the PGA at Medinah Country Club, Woods was in the final group and had a share of the lead early in the final round at this year's Masters and U.S. Open. But he wound up in a tie for second at both events. Across the pond, he tied for 12th in his quest to win a third consecutive British Open.

Woods, who has four wins, three seconds, a third and a fourth in the last 11 majors, has been shut out in golf's four most cherished events only three years since he turned professional — 1998, 2003 and 2004. To keep 2007 off the list, Woods has to conquer the deepest field in golf (98 of the top 100 players are playing) and sloping, dogleg-dominated Southern Hills.

Retief Goosen certainly thinks Woods can win the PGA. Goosen, who won the 2001 U.S. Open the last time a major was at Southern Hills, said Woods remains the chief target despite his winless streak in the majors.

"Most players feel if they finish in front of Tiger, they're going to win the event," Goosen said. "That's what's happened this year in the majors. So, yeah, I definitely think he's still the guy to beat every day of the week."

Woods, who is hunting his 13th major title in pursuit of Jack Nicklaus' record 18, also likes his chances. And contrary to popular opinion, he likes Southern Hills. Many feel the course doesn't suit Woods' power game because the doglegs limit his use of the driver. In his two previous visits to Southern Hills, Woods finished 21st out of 30 at the 1996 Tour Championship and in a tie for 12th at the 2001 U.S. Open.

Woods doesn't remember much of 1996 — his father was hospitalized the weekend of the Tour Championship after a sudden heart attack. In 2001, Woods knows exactly why he didn't play well.

"I like the golf course. I like the layout. I just wasn't hitting the ball well at the U.S. Open, and if you're not hitting the ball well, you're going to get exposed," Woods said. "I did that week."

Woods had all facets of his game covered last week. His confidence is high, his game is at a peak level and his intent is steadfast.