People from all over the worlds of sports, entertainment, publicity, imaging, computer science, coal mining, urban development, yes, just about everybody, has been opining over ‘what Tiger needs to do.’ In case you missed it, Tiger has released a follow up statement:
Tiger Woods taking hiatus from golf By Tiger Woods
I am deeply aware of the disappointment and hurt that my infidelity has caused to so many people, most of all my wife and children. I want to say again to everyone that I am profoundly sorry and that I ask forgiveness. It may not be possible to repair the damage I’ve done, but I want to do my best to try.
I would like to ask everyone, including my fans, the good people at my foundation, business partners, the PGA Tour, and my fellow competitors, for their understanding. What’s most important now is that my family has the time, privacy, and safe haven we will need for personal healing.
After much soul searching, I have decided to take an indefinite break from professional golf. I need to focus my attention on being a better husband, father, and person.
Again, I ask for privacy for my family and I am especially grateful for all those who have offered compassion and concern during this difficult period.
He quit golf for the time being. I assume he quit side action too.
In an attempt to read between the lines, does this mean Elin is going to actually give him a legitimate shot at re-building their family and marriage? If so, she is one forgiving, selfless and loving person. Either that or desperate. Or stubborn. Or so in love she can’t help herself.
One thing is for sure as far as I’m concerned, Tiger’s emotional issues run deep. He seems to be that breed of guy called a “compartmentalizer” – where two worlds co-exist within one man and are treated as unrelated. It’s cold and dark and I know some guys like this.
For Woods to pull this off, quitting golf is the first step. Intense therapy and faith building could be helpful, not to mention the construction of a conscience from scratch. Tall order, but maybe this Tiger has many different stripes of greatness. Maybe.
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I am not suggesting by any means that Tiger Woods’ indefinite leave from golf is a tactical “move” in the court of public opinion, but it’s a strong move nonetheless.
Tiger is sending the crucial message that his marriage and family supersede his globally massive image and profession. To walk away from ALL of that, means whatever you’re walking towards is uniquely important.
A few opponents of Tiger’s have spoken out against him. Given that quite regularly TV tournament ratings when Tiger is not in the hunt are much smaller than when he is, this will be a good way to unite his profession in missing him.
Like Howard Stern was good for ALL radio and “American Idol” is great for the TV industry, in that it feeds a lot of ancillary programs and TV interest in general, Woods is essential to golf. Crucial. In fact, I imagine a lot of people will be nervously watching to see if the game goes on life support without him.
And finally, if America loves a comeback, be sure that the field has just been set for the “Masters” of comebacks. Woods’ eventual return will be messianic in scope.
Semantics aside, let’s be compassionate enough to pray for the man, definitely his wife and their family. Nobody can wish emotional pain like this on anyone, anywhere.
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