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In this time-lapsed photo, we see what Charlie Axel Woods will look like in just six months.
In this time-lapsed photo, we see what Charlie Axel Woods will look like in just six months. (Courtesy PGA of America)

Breaking news: Charlie Axel Woods receives John Deere Classic sponsor exemption

William K. WolfrumBy William K. Wolfrum,
Contributor

Anonymous sources close to BadGolfer.com have let us in on a doozy: Charlie Axel Woods - the newborn son of Tiger Woods - will become the youngest player in the history of golf, as he has accepted a sponsor's exemption to compete in the 2009 John Deere Classic.

"This is a great opportunity for Charlie," said a source close to the Woods family. "He seems extremely excited at this chance to showcase his game."

Others have disputed this account, saying that Charlie Axel's excitement is plainly just a minor case of gas.

Nonetheless, the move is a coup for the John Deere Classic, which has in the past made headlines for repeatedly giving teenage golf sensation Michelle Wie exemptions to compete against the PGA Tour's best. And despite the fact that Charlie Axel is just a few days old, inside sources say they expect to see an historic performance from the infant.

"Charlie Axel will be six months old when the John Deere Classic tees off," said the source, adding that the newborn has already signed a lucrative deal with Nike. "That gives him plenty of time to get his game where it needs to be."

Sources close to Tiger and Elin Woods say Charlie Axel has all the tools to be as great as, or even greater than, his famous father.

"For being less than a week old, his focus is incredible," said the source. "Right now, he's sleeping upwards of 20 hours a day to prepare for this event. He'll be ready."

While the John Deere Classic received negative press for giving Wie the chance to fail spectacularly against PGA Tour pros, it has been reported that John Deere officials deny that the move is a publicity stunt.

"The pressure to perform is on Charlie," said the source. "He's got the name and it's time for him to back it up. This is really a shrewd move by John Deere."

While Charlie Axel Woods will be the youngest player in the history of golf when he tees it up, that designation may not last long. The Asian Times has reported that the Japanese Golf Tour is preparing to offer a sponsor's exemption to a blastocyst from Lorena Ochoa should the newly married star have one available this year.

"This is no publicity stunt," said the report. "We figure 75-80 cells formed inside Lorena Ochoa would be competitive. After all, it would already have one trophoblast to its credit."

William K. Wolfrum keeps one eye on the PGA Tour and another watching golf vacation hotspots and letting travelers in on the best place to vacation. You can follow him on Twitter @Wolfrum.

 
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