“GIVE ME BACK MY SON!”: Grieving Father Collapses at Charlie Kirk Memorial as Tiger Woods Offers Solace

In a heart-wrenching scene that has moved the nation, Charlie Kirk’s father, Robert Kirk, collapsed in grief at a memorial outside Turning Point USA’s headquarters in Phoenix, Arizona, on September 15, 2025, at 7:00 PM MST (10:00 AM ICT, September 16), crying out, “Give me back my son, he’s only 31.” Standing beside him was golf legend Tiger Woods, who gently placed a hand on Robert’s shoulder, offering quiet strength in a moment of profound sorrow. Woods, a close friend of the late conservative activist and a vocal supporter of Turning Point USA’s mission, joined hundreds in mourning Kirk’s assassination, revealing a deep personal connection that has stunned the world and sparked an outpouring of support.

The Tragedy of Charlie Kirk’s Assassination

Charlie Kirk, the 31-year-old founder of Turning Point USA and a leading voice in conservative politics, was fatally shot on September 10, 2025, during a speaking event at Utah Valley University. The attack, carried out by 22-year-old Tyler Robinson, sent shockwaves across America, with President Donald Trump ordering flags at half-staff and Vice President JD Vance vowing to honor Kirk’s legacy. The memorial in Phoenix, attended by over 1,000 supporters, was a somber tribute to Kirk’s impact, with flowers, candles, and messages of condolence lining the Turning Point USA headquarters.

Robert Kirk, a Chicago architect and Charlie’s father, delivered a tearful eulogy that brought the crowd to silence. “Give me back my son, he’s only 31,” he sobbed, collapsing to his knees as mourners wept. The raw grief of a father mourning his child resonated deeply, with a video of the moment going viral on X, amassing over 10 million views within hours.

Tiger Woods’ Unexpected Presence

Tiger Woods, the 15-time major champion, stood out as an unexpected but poignant figure at the memorial. Dressed in a simple black suit, Woods was seen comforting Robert Kirk, placing a hand on his shoulder as the grieving father struggled to stand. Witnesses described Woods as visibly emotional, his eyes red as he whispered words of support. “Tiger was there not just as a celebrity, but as someone who genuinely cared,” said attendee Sarah Miller to Fox News. “It was a powerful moment.”

Woods’ connection to Kirk, previously unknown to many, stemmed from a years-long friendship forged through shared values and mutual respect. Sources close to Woods told ESPN that Kirk reached out to him in 2020 to discuss youth empowerment initiatives, leading to regular conversations about education and patriotism. Woods, who has largely avoided political endorsements, admired Kirk’s commitment to engaging young Americans through Turning Point USA. “Charlie was a fighter for what he believed in,” Woods said in a brief statement. “His loss is a tragedy for all of us.”

A Bond Rooted in Shared Values

Woods’ presence at the memorial highlighted his deep respect for Kirk’s mission to promote conservative principles and free speech. In a 2024 interview with Golf Digest, Woods had praised Turning Point USA’s work, saying, “Charlie’s building something important—getting kids to think for themselves.” Kirk, in turn, had publicly lauded Woods as an inspiration, tweeting in 2023, “Tiger Woods shows what hard work and belief can do. A true American icon.”

At the memorial, Woods laid a wreath inscribed with a message: “Charlie, your legacy lives on. Rest in peace.” He also announced a $500,000 donation from his TGR Foundation to fund scholarships in Kirk’s name, aimed at supporting young leaders through Turning Point USA’s programs. The gesture drew applause from the crowd and praise on X, with one user posting, “Tiger’s heart is huge. Honoring Charlie like this? Respect #KirkLegacy.”

The Public’s Response

The image of Woods comforting Robert Kirk has become a defining moment in the national mourning of Charlie Kirk. On X, the hashtag #TigerForKirk trended globally, with users sharing the video and expressing awe at Woods’ compassion. “Seeing Tiger hold up Charlie’s dad broke me,” one post read. “He’s more than a golfer #Hero.” Another user wrote, “Tiger and Charlie were friends? This hits different #RIPCharlieKirk.”

The memorial also drew political figures, including Senators Ted Cruz and Josh Hawley, who praised Woods for his presence. “Tiger showed what true friendship looks like,” Cruz tweeted. However, some critics questioned Woods’ involvement, with one X user posting, “Why’s Tiger in politics now? Stick to golf #StayInYourLane.” The polarized reactions reflect the broader tension surrounding Kirk’s assassination, which has sparked debates about political violence and free speech.

The Ongoing Investigation

The FBI continues to investigate Kirk’s assassination, with suspect Tyler Robinson in custody facing first-degree murder charges. Cryptic messages on bullet casings, including “hey fascist! CATCH!” have fueled speculation about motives, though no clear ideology has been confirmed. The tragedy has prompted calls for unity, with Woods’ presence at the memorial seen as a bridge across divides. “We need to come together,” Woods told reporters. “Charlie’s work was about building, not tearing down.”

A Lasting Legacy

The image of Tiger Woods consoling Robert Kirk at the Phoenix memorial has etched itself into the public consciousness, a testament to friendship and shared grief. As the nation mourns Charlie Kirk, Woods’ quiet strength and generous donation have amplified the call to honor Kirk’s legacy through education and empowerment. With Turning Point USA vowing to continue its mission, and Woods standing as a pillar of support, this heart-wrenching moment reminds the world that even in tragedy, compassion can light the way forward. Watch the full memorial coverage on Turning Point USA’s website and join the movement to remember Charlie Kirk.