Tiger To Return At The Masters...**
/...squelching Captain Mark O'Meara's dreams of a Tiger-led Isleworth team at next week's Tavistock Cup. But thank God the non-golfing world won't see golf at its most egregiously excessive and over-the-top. However...
This is yet another selfish move by Woods, not that I'm surprised at this point. Instead of the Masters serving as a celebration of spring, golf and the year's first major, the return-circus has to take place where he can avoid heckling and tough questioning. And based on Steve Stricker's comments last weekend, you have to think his fellow players just lost even more respect. Not that Tiger cares.
**The first AP story, citing a statement.
And the statement now posted on TigerWoods.com.
"I have undergone almost two months of inpatient therapy, and I am continuing my treatment. Although I'm returning to competition, I still have a lot of work to do in my personal life.
"When I finally got into a position to think about competitive golf again, it became apparent to me that the Masters would be the earliest I could play. I called both Joe Lewis and Arnold Palmer and expressed my regrets for not attending the Tavistock Cup and the Arnold Palmer Invitational. I again want to thank them both for their support and their understanding. Those are fantastic tournaments, and I look forward to competing in them again.
"I would also like to thank the Augusta National members and staff for their support. I have deep appreciation for everything that they do to create a wonderful event for the benefit of the game."
TMZ of all places has a semi-maudlin statement from Billy Payne:
"We support Tiger's decision to return to competitive golf beginning at this year's Masters Tournament. Additionally, we support and encourage his stated commitment to continue the significant work required to rebuild his personal and professional life."
And the statement from PGA Tour Commissioner Tim Finchem:
We were pleased to learn that Tiger Woods will be playing the Masters in a few weeks. He has invested a lot of time taking steps, both in his personal and professional life, in order to prepare for his return. We all wish him and his family the best as he rejoins the TOUR.
