TIGER WOODS almost got hit by a golf ball, and he rowed with a photographer in an exciting opening round of the PGA Championship.

The 15-time major champion opened his round by birdieing his first hole, the par-4 tenth. He went on to go two-under through five.

Things took a turn for the worse when five bogeys were made in eight holes at Southern Hills, Oklahoma.

His mood deteriorated when, on Tiger's 16th hole, a stray ball suddenly crossed the fairway in his direction.

Woods was about to line up his shot, and was about to get up to play when he saw it heading towards him.

The 46-year-old American legend slipped on the grass verge and injured his ankle. Fortunately, he was not hurt as he completed his round.

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Woods had a difficult time with a TV crewmember at the start of his 18 who wanted to be close and personal as he walked down first fairway.

Tiger told the camera operator repeatedly to give Tiger space. He shooed them away with his arm, driver, and almost stopped to stare at the lens.

He said three times, "Back off and allow me some breathing room, please."

Woods finished four-over after bogeying the previous two and is now in danger of missing out on the cut.

He was part of an all-star team with Jordan Spieth and Rory McIlroy.

The Northern Irishman had the best start. He raced to a three-shot lead on the leaderboard at six-under, before falling back towards the end.

Rory won the clubhouse lead with a birdie at the last.

Woods, still unable to walk due to leg injuries from last year's car accident, won the Southern Hills PGA title in 2007.

McIlroy won in 2012, while McIlroy was victorious in 2014. Spieth will need this tournament to complete his career grand slam.