Tiger Woods among finalists for World Golf Hall of Fame induction

No surprise here.

Tiger Woods is among 10 finalists to be considered for induction into the World Golf Hall of Fame’s Class of 2021.

The World Golf Foundation board of directors recently lowered its age restriction from 50 to 45, clearing the way for Woods — who turns 45 in December — to enter the Hall of Fame next year. Hall of Fame members are also eligible if they have been retired for three or more years. The World Golf Foundation board also retired the veterans category and changed the name of the “Lifetime Achievement” category to “Contributor.”

Each of the 10 finalists finalist announced Tuesday morning, both male and female competitors and contributors, excelled in either on-course accomplishments or significant contributions to golf.

The competitors nominated for the Class of 2021 are Susie Maxwell Berning, Johnny Farrell, Beverly Hanson, Padraig Harrington, Sandra Palmer, Dottie Pepper, Tom Weiskopf and Woods. The contributors are former PGA Tour commissioner Tim Finchem and Marion Hollins, the 1921 U.S. Women’s Amateur champion who helped develop Cypress Point and Pasatiempo.

In order to be inducted, an individual must receive approval from at least 75% of the selection committee.

“The Nominating Committee has selected 10 finalists who represent the highest caliber of golfers and contributors,” CEO of World Golf Foundation Greg McLaughlin said in a statement. “The recent enhancements to the World Golf Hall of Fame Induction criteria provide a great process to ensure the most worthy of candidates are being considered. We are grateful to the Nominating Committee for their work and anticipate the Class of 2021 being one of our strongest to date.”

The Hall of Fame nominating committee is comprised of 26 individuals including Hall of Fame Members Juli Inkster, Hale Irwin, Meg Mallon, Colin Montgomerie, Mark O’Meara and Karrie Webb.

The inductees and details of the ceremony will be announced at a later date.