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Tiger Woods' playing partner Steve Stricker wants the 'old Tiger back'

By Marilyn Malara
United States team members Tiger Woods, left, and Steve Stricker chat while on the ninth green during the second day of practice rounds at Medinah Country Club, site of the 39th Ryder Cup matches in 2012. Stricker is now suggesting that Tiger begin depending on his own instinct ahead of this year's Greenbrier Classic. Photo by Frank Polich/UPI
1 of 3 | United States team members Tiger Woods, left, and Steve Stricker chat while on the ninth green during the second day of practice rounds at Medinah Country Club, site of the 39th Ryder Cup matches in 2012. Stricker is now suggesting that Tiger begin depending on his own instinct ahead of this year's Greenbrier Classic. Photo by Frank Polich/UPI | License Photo

WHITE SULPHUR SPRINGS, W.Va., July 1 (UPI) -- Ahead of this year's Greenbrier Classic, Steve Stricker suggests that his good friend and playing partner Tiger Woods should trust himself more than he does.

According to Stricker, Woods -- whom he has tutored in the past -- would benefit if he began depending on his instinct when it comes to his form, just like he used to. "I think the main thing is that he needs to come up with his game plan," he told the Golf Channel. "This is what Tiger needs to do: Do it himself."

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Woods has had a tough time recently in terms of his game. The once top-notch player came in last place at the Memorial, shooting a career-worst 85 in the third round. He also left the U.S. Open early after signing for the highest 36-hole score of his career.

Currently, Woods is working with swing consultant Chris Como.

"I'm not saying that he can't have a teacher or anything like that, but it needs to come from him and 'This is the things that I want to change,' and take ownership of his swing," Stricker said of the 14-time major champion and former No. 1 golfer. "He surely knows how to swing a club and knows how to play."

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"We need him out here. We need him out here playing well," Stricker continued. Mentioning younger players Rory McIlrooy, Jordan Spieth and Dustin Johnson, Stricker hopes that Woods could bounce back from his slump. "We want the old Tiger back, playing at a high level to challenge these younger kids," he said.

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