From the Sunset Room on the second floor of the TPC Sawgrass, home of
the PGA Tour, the most famous golfer in the world spoke today about his absence from the game, his various transgressions and where things go from here.
It was was a somber affair (heyooh!), with Woods speaking in front of a small, stone-faced audience of family, friends and a smattering of press. The Golf Writers Association of America has boycotted the press conference, due to limitations on the number of writers allowed to attend. Not that it mattered, seeing as everyone and their mother was streaming online what the New York Times' David Carr called "press conference penitent spoken-word performance."
In his statement, during which Woods' mom could be seen sitting with her arms crossed and exhibiting the universal "Disappointed Mom" face, Woods repeatedly apologized for his actions and asked for forgiveness and understanding from his friends, family and fans.
"I have a lot to atone for."
He choked up a bit when talking about the effect this circus has had on his wife, and took a few minutes to admonish the media for following around his kids and other family members.
In the end, Woods said he's heading back to therapy and does plan to return to golf, maybe even this year, but wouldn't elaborate. He then stepped away from the podium and hugged his mother.
Read more on the story here
Related stories:
Finchem indicates in letter that Woods will go back to therapy after appearance
Golf Writers Association of America votes not to participate as pool reporters
Oh My God!!! I cant belive this guy!!! He is a young, not bad looking, billionare who likes to sleep with beautiful and easy women. How out of the ordinary! (yes that is sarcasim)
Posted by: Charlie Sheen | Friday, February 19, 2010 at 11:58 AM
Are we so shocked... another guy... another two timing PIG who can't keep it in his pants!! Are we so shocked??!!
Posted by: G. Cotnam | Friday, February 19, 2010 at 12:08 PM
Well who cares? Let the guy be! Not everyone is perfect and it's his personel life.
Posted by: mary | Friday, February 19, 2010 at 12:13 PM
Everybody take a deep breath and get off the soap box! I'm sure if anyone of us were in Tiger's position (fame, fortune and the ability to do or have anything you wanted) your PERSONAL conduct would be squeaky clean - YA RIGHT!!!!!!
Posted by: Dan trudel | Friday, February 19, 2010 at 12:19 PM
LOL no one is perfect, if he wanted to sleep around yes it his choice but he should have left his wife not keep he holding on so many bad things could have happened he risked giving her something ...... i don't get it its a joke
Posted by: sarah | Friday, February 19, 2010 at 12:19 PM
I can't wait for the movie lol
Posted by: Paul G. | Friday, February 19, 2010 at 12:24 PM
Movie Title: A ball, a golf club, a mistress and A pocket full of sunshine
Posted by: Paul G. | Friday, February 19, 2010 at 12:27 PM
Does any of this affect any of us personally in any way, shape or form?
Answer no, no and no. So why should any of us care, it is none of our business.
Oh I am sure there will be a movie of the week.
Posted by: Monica | Friday, February 19, 2010 at 12:29 PM
wow what a great actor. he should be in movies. he's not going to change, he'll just get better at hidding it.
Posted by: omglol | Friday, February 19, 2010 at 12:30 PM
I say let Jerry Springer sort the whole thing out.
Posted by: Chris | Friday, February 19, 2010 at 12:30 PM
This guy has EVERYTHING most people would die for. He should be terribly ashamed. Even with money and fame, people should have a clean image. Remember, you have to look at yourself in the mirror on a daily basis, wouldn't you like to do it with a clear conscience? Money and fame does equal scumbag!
Posted by: Tammy | Friday, February 19, 2010 at 12:32 PM
HI
Not to condone adultry.......I Don't........BUT why not tell the media , his X sponsers , the endorsements ,and the public to take a flying ..............you know!
He has more money the they could make in 10 lifetimes. He can pay his own way.! In a few years when he's won it all AGAIN !!they'll be all over him AGAIN! Then he wont have to appologize to ANYONE!!!
Pat K
Posted by: P Konkle | Friday, February 19, 2010 at 12:33 PM
Just another weak failure. Blaming it on a non-existant made-up addiction to explain his inability to control himself.
Posted by: Chris A | Friday, February 19, 2010 at 12:33 PM
Don't feel the least bit sorry for a rich, arrogant golfer who is NOT a good role model for our kids!!! Grow up and act your age. Let him be and maybe we will be lucky that he will fade into the sunset and we won't have to listen to any more "Tiger" tails !!!!
Posted by: Laurie | Friday, February 19, 2010 at 12:40 PM
i couldn't stop laughing...soooo fake, so rehearsed...nice touch with the hug from mama...no questions from the media?? coward...it's all or nothing....you want to be left alone? then don't be in the 'public eye'...you are Tiger Woods, right? lol
Posted by: Deb | Friday, February 19, 2010 at 12:48 PM
What would we do without the media. I feel bad for those people always in the limelight. They have to be squeaky clean like dare they sneeze the wrong way watch out but 13 women is rude. No I do not feel sorry for him.
Posted by: Dee | Friday, February 19, 2010 at 12:49 PM
Why so much Media? Because it makes media moguls money. Honestly is he the first to sleep around? Did someone forget to read the America's stats on extra marital affairs? Did we forget Clinton kept his job? Tiger did not beat his wife, steal, rape or other things that were much worst. He will continue to pay dearly (loss of sponsorship, wife's confidence, children's perception etc.) but he is still a guy that has talent in his career, and now has an opportunity to learn and be a great father to his children. Let's not alow the press to turn this into a circus like they did which brought down many other good entertainers ie. Micheal Jackson. Cut the guy some slack.
Posted by: A Fan | Friday, February 19, 2010 at 12:50 PM
It seems to me that it's the media who are profiting from this story. Anyone who is anyone can not have a private life with the media always in their face.
Back off.
Posted by: Tom | Friday, February 19, 2010 at 12:50 PM
he is only sorry he got caught. Once a liar and cheat ... always!
Posted by: Cindy | Friday, February 19, 2010 at 12:51 PM
Good the party's over now get practising your other swing.
Posted by: Smokey | Friday, February 19, 2010 at 12:52 PM
BFD!
Who cares.
Posted by: Reality | Friday, February 19, 2010 at 12:52 PM
Call Tiger's indiscretions multiple reflections of what is taboo if one is looked on as a role model, or a representation of what other's wished for...the perfect life: wealth, a beautiful wife and family, and, by all appearances, a happy life filled with contentment. But that was not the case with Tiger. A seperation takes place when a level of success as high as the heavens is achieved; when looking out from lofty heights, there is no one watching...anything goes, you are out of reach, you are infallible. And thus the problems begin to break out like some ancient incurable disease making all of you offensive at sight, regarded now as despicable, disagreeable and dangerous as a role model. Human, and yes, with more than an abundance of the frailities. Grace now eludes you. Those who once adorned you now scorn you. But coming clean can make a difference. "By breaking through the foul and ugly mists of vapours that did seem to strangle him, that when he please again to be himself, he will be more wondered at." Like Prince Hal, you can bet our Tiger will break through and make those of us filled with sadness, yet hope for him, proud once again.
Posted by: Leslie Knibbs | Friday, February 19, 2010 at 12:58 PM
I don't condone what he did, however, why is he the only "pig" in all of this? - Remember, there was one guy and 20 different women involved, So, the women don't come out of this smelling like roses and being full of virtue either. This seems to be widely overlooked these days. No married guy can stray unless he finds a willing woman first!
Posted by: Michael | Friday, February 19, 2010 at 01:00 PM
It is all media hype and an attempt to make money off a "scandal". He is a golfer and that is his job. It is nobody's business what he does in his bedroom. People just want to shake their fingers and pass moral judgment! I guess it is reflective of what medocre lives we live. He's not the first man to cheat on his wife regardless of how many times and with whom...and I'm sure he's not going to be the last.
Posted by: Bored | Friday, February 19, 2010 at 01:00 PM
Boy is Paris Hilton and Britney pissed! They are losing media attention over the Woods husband cheating story. On the otherhand the US Government slipped in a rate increase for banks and removed the focus from their lack of competency in creating American Jobs, so they are happy.
Trust me Tiger Woods will be on the course soon and will create higher televised ratings of the sport then ever, and I sure if his wife truely loved him she will be there with him and the kids smily at the press. Oh and yes Nike will win BIG with their new Tag line....... JUST DO IT! - BUT DON'T GET CAUGHT!
Folks we really have to lighten up! He is human and we need to forgive and move on.
Posted by: Kevin | Friday, February 19, 2010 at 01:01 PM
y is everyone talking about tiger , let the guy live his life and enjoy it while he can , sogive it up and take care of your own problems .lollllllllllllllll
Posted by: MAYA | Friday, February 19, 2010 at 01:05 PM
Re Michael's post. I'm sure the 20 or so women involved had no idea he was married. bwaaahaaahaaahaaa
Posted by: Kate | Friday, February 19, 2010 at 01:08 PM
well he is just a regular jock at least he didnt kill his wife.
Posted by: tom | Friday, February 19, 2010 at 01:12 PM
Wow! How unusually honest! Congradulations to his parents for instilling good values.
Tiger is greater than just a good golfer. Go Tiger go!
Posted by: Barbara Garrett | Friday, February 19, 2010 at 01:17 PM
What does his personal life has to do with his ability to play golf? Let his personal life be just that, personal.
Posted by: Bob K. | Friday, February 19, 2010 at 01:22 PM
oh to be as perfect as the ones bashing tiger.our society should be ashamed for the way we condone our own actions by pointing at another's wrong doings.may tigers marriage work out,whereas i have cheated on my wife more than 14 times,got caught,confessed everything,seperated,got back together and now live more happily than most people in a relationship we know. and yes i too have done and am doing a sexual addiction recovery course that saved everything i have today.but with a 52% divorce rate it shows people don't have the morals and values instilled in us to be able to pull through struggles that life brings forth on us.why don't we all take the easy way out.people are so weak.
Posted by: walter | Friday, February 19, 2010 at 01:22 PM
put the nigge rback on a boat to africa, but i like fucking niggers so let him fuck me first. i like fuckign horses too. and i like being pissed and shit on. i am a whore
Posted by: jackie parker | Friday, February 19, 2010 at 01:26 PM
live and let live.every body make mistake and I mean every body.name a perfect person!
NONE
Lou
Posted by: lou de rasp | Friday, February 19, 2010 at 01:28 PM
Give the guy a break, stop the media linching and let him work things out with his wife and get back to playing golf.
All you haters, start tiger proofing the golf course now cause he will win when he returns
Go Tiger!!!
Posted by: leslie | Friday, February 19, 2010 at 01:33 PM
you choose to be a sports hero, movie star....whatever, you give up most if not all of your privacy...it's part of the package whether we or they agree with it or not. he's a man, husband, father, cheater...not the first who got caught, not the last but he's Tiger, a millionaire golf hero...of course it's all over the media...come on...
Posted by: Deb | Friday, February 19, 2010 at 01:35 PM
I don't belive that him having affairs are relevant to how he play's the game at all. Ooh well he had affairs I dont care. I don't watch golf to hear about his personal life, i watch it beause he is a great player. leave his personal life in the dirt where him and his family can deal with it because in the end of all this controversy he is still going to be an amazing golfer. Hes human, he's rich, he's a MALE! what were u expecting. Get over it and stop making such a big deal about the situation, that's just how life is.
Posted by: Tan | Friday, February 19, 2010 at 01:38 PM
"Let those among us who are without sin be the first the cast the stone". Not that I condone his actions but all have us have fallen in some shape or form. His personal life should be between him, his family, and those personally affected. All involved have been through enough grief; they don't need the public to antagonize something that's nobody's business. Tiger, get back on the golf course - it's something you do right and has nothing to do with where you may have gone wrong.
Posted by: Denise | Friday, February 19, 2010 at 01:38 PM
Why is this anyone's business? I don't agree that he "had to" apologize to the public...the damned public is drunk with this sort of voyeurism.
Posted by: Dave T | Friday, February 19, 2010 at 01:53 PM
WOW..people really have allot to say about something thats no of their business!! I have noticed that most of the negitive comments are from women! makes me wonder if they have had this happen to them in their life and thats why they are so negitive about Tiger.I would be willing to bet thats the case!
I for one really dont give a darn what he did,I believe its between him and his wife.What he did does not changed my opinion of Tiger in any way shape or form and he does not owe me or anyone commenting on this board an apology.I admire and like him for his golf game.Whats make me laugh even more is the negitive people getting their say on these boards probably dont even watch golf!!!!!
Posted by: Lisa | Friday, February 19, 2010 at 02:04 PM
I wish this story would just go away in all seriousness but I dont think that will happen untill Tiger gets back out there doing what Tiger does, Winning Golf tournaments! We dont need to go far to look at successful people that have been caught cheating. For example Bill Clinton one of America's best presidents, John Kennedy another iconic president, adn the list could go on but people eventually forgave and in some instantce forget about there "Heros" personal mistake because of what made them "Heros" in hte first place, being the best at what they do. I look forward to Tiger getting back to golf and dominating hte filed like he has before, when this happens slowly this will all become history.
Posted by: Bill | Friday, February 19, 2010 at 02:08 PM
seriously, the only reason for this event is to save the 'brand'.
he's sorry for getting caught? sure. sorry for what he did? doubt it. having a press conference that does not allow questions. having a press conference where specific people are invited? releasing family pictures to the media, apparently candid of him out and about with Elin? i think, that with everthing else in his career that is organized and strategically private, the photos are not candid.
he's an amazing golfer. so then golf. enough with the personal insight. i have no interest in his personal life and watching him apologize a million times = 15 minutes of my life that I will never get back. i am bored already.
Posted by: Rachel | Friday, February 19, 2010 at 02:09 PM
This is what the media wanted and they got it in spades so now give it a rest and let Tiger and Elgin work on their family. The media had done enough damage to Tiger and his family. Look in the mirror and see if you ALL in the media are perfect with no flaws.
Posted by: noreen | Friday, February 19, 2010 at 02:10 PM
When we put people on a pedestal, we are always shocked when they fail us.
The solution is to stop idolizing people, they are only human, and will make mistakes.
(Especially when living in a $$$ fantasy land and are not held accountable for their actions.) Fame comes at a cost, and that cost is rarely financial.
No matter what walk of life we come from, we should never do anything behind closed doors that we wouldn't want shouted from the roof tops (or posted all over the internet!)
We should all be so concerned about cleaning out or own closets before we point fingers at anybody else (including celebrities) But the problem there is that when we address our own issues, we have to deal with them, and I suppose many folks would just rather live in a state of denial.
My two cents. Cheers.
Posted by: Lisa | Friday, February 19, 2010 at 02:11 PM
Tiger,
I think that making this whole thing into a media circus is ridiculus. Specially that the men and women that abuse with full knowledge of their action do not get this kind of publicity is ridiculus. And your right when it comes to individuals that do appologies they don't have to go public or put their whole family in the spotlight.
It looks like everyone is making money on this and for that reason they will want it to last for ever.
Who does not need extra cash right!
Another reason for wanting to keep the story going is that some people feel cleaner that way as well by pointing the finger over there.
Posted by: Anomymus | Friday, February 19, 2010 at 02:20 PM
The man does not need therapy; he needs sex like every other guy! The problem is he is getting it in the wrong place! Where was his wife during that time; now she knows, maybe she will follow him around.
Posted by: Carmen | Friday, February 19, 2010 at 02:30 PM
Let's face it, he's not a good looking guy, the only reason he has such a beautiful wife is because he's famous. I just think if you want to sleep around then you have no business being married! Another jerk off who can't keep it in his pants...disgusting!
Posted by: Melanie | Friday, February 19, 2010 at 02:35 PM
I don't like cheaters of any kind, male, female, rich, poor. This talented young man should never have married so young. He could have enjoyed his fame, had as many girlfriends as he wanted without all these repurcussions, and when he finally had enough of it, THEN get married & have kids.
This is a taken from another news source:
Veronica Siwik-Daniels, one of Woods' alleged mistresses and a former pornographic performer, watched the event with her lawyer in a Los Angeles radio studio. She said she wants an apology for the unwanted attention the scandal has brought her.
"I really feel I deserve to look at him in person face to face in the eyes because I did not deserve this," she said.
I want to know what she didn't deserve. Did she every deny that she was one of his mistresses, or did she shout it from the rooftops? Veronica - I think you brought all this "unwanted attention" on to yourself by revealing your role in Tiger's life. Along with all the others who outted him. I wonder how much they are all going to sue him for?
Posted by: Stephanie | Friday, February 19, 2010 at 02:35 PM
When deliberate actions are hurtful to others, one should be accountable. That's exactly what's happneing here. He's being held accountable for his wrong doing. I don't feel sorry for him. He is a privilliged high profile person, he is getting back what he put out into this universe.
C.
Posted by: C. | Friday, February 19, 2010 at 02:39 PM
Tiger's still too full of himself to make himself accountable to his family and golf fans and media. Yes, if you make your living as the poster boy for a popular sport you are accountable to the public. He is still a spineless little weasel that will jump the first thing with a pulse that will hold still long enough.
Posted by: Ron | Friday, February 19, 2010 at 02:39 PM
What is this article doing in the Olympic Blog section? Who cares?
Posted by: Paul | Friday, February 19, 2010 at 04:27 PM
What is this nonsense doing the Olympic Blog section of this site? Who cares?
Posted by: Paul | Friday, February 19, 2010 at 04:28 PM
What do we expect. Stats show horrible percentages of unfaithful husbands and wives in our lives today. It will continue and will get worse. Media needs it, especially for the money involved. How about you!, look in the mirror., are you there yet. chances are if you are not you will be before to long. Money helps but not neccesary. It is a collapse of the old system. Blame Tiger Woods. How many haVE NOT BEEN CAUGHT?
Posted by: Torchy | Friday, February 19, 2010 at 08:19 PM
I wish people would leave the man alone.........not condoning what he did. I am sure Elin was aware of things long before the media blew things up and out. The women he was with are call girls, no more no less.........not nice .............. lets not give them anymore attention , which is what they want. Tiger , is a golfer , and thats all we need to know about him.........I am so positive the very people at nike and the other sponsers, r so pure and lily white, they have the right to do this to him. I have to laugh at people saying , its bad for our kids........then let their kids watch what they want on tv , read what they want , listen to whatever they want ........no its not Tiger who is hurting ur kids , its the media , and the money they make ...............Tiger's personal life should be that ......personal. Leave him alone and give the family a chance to heal. We are human, and never will be perfect.
Posted by: fran | Saturday, February 20, 2010 at 11:07 AM
Mr. Woods does not owe me an appology. The whole mess is none of my business or yours. He big time owes his wife & family appologies while down on his knees. Nuff said.
Posted by: bob in canada | Saturday, February 20, 2010 at 01:22 PM
I am not a golf fan, neither am I a fan of glorifying famous people. A hero is someone who earns the respect of the people. They are not a hero because they are famous, wealthy, attractive, athletic or even intelligent. A hero is someone who follows a moral code and impacts people in a positive way. A hero is a role model and their integrity is tested over time in adverse situations...Tiger only faced adversity on the golf course. Tiger Woods is an attractive, intelligent, athletic, wealthy young man who bolstered the sport of golf to new heights, but even at his peak, I don't understand how he could be considered a hero...perhaps a role model to up and comers to wished to pursue the sport, but what did he stand for...play well and you will make it rich.
Tiger's apology was a decent attempt to be authentic to the public, but he doesn't owe me an apology. I don't ever need to see him again actually. He needs to apologize to his family and friends...period. His sponsors have spoken with their bankbooks. Now, how will he face adversity...let's see what happens to him in about 30 years when his children have had a chance to live their lives.
Posted by: a non-golfer | Saturday, February 20, 2010 at 08:30 PM
We all live in glass houses, and now we need to step back and let the man get back to the real issue. Family is, and always should be first. People argue that he wasn't sincere, how do we know? We are not in his soul! Tiger is a golfer, a man; more importantly, a husband and a father. Let him heal, and let his family ...heal. Let them get strong, and then let him return to the only reason we really care - GOLF!!!See More
Posted by: Roxy | Sunday, February 21, 2010 at 02:36 PM
He may be the worlds greatest golfer he is also the biggest a**hole .. More bullshit is'nt amazing how everybody turns to religon when they are in deep shit, "Bullshit baffles brains" and we are going to suck this all up so he can make more billion 's $$$. Way to go tiger.
Posted by: marlon | Sunday, February 21, 2010 at 02:52 PM
Tiger is a "racist" why is he only bangin white women ??
Posted by: hanah | Thursday, February 25, 2010 at 05:05 PM