I have let my family down, says Woods
WORLD No1 Tiger Woods has admitted letting down his family by committing “personal sins”, following fresh speculation about his private life.
The world’s highest paid sportsman has been the subject of frenzied media attention since crashing his car near his Florida home in the early hours of Friday morning.
Woods, 33, suffered only facial injuries but faces a fine for careless driving and pulled out of this week’s Chevron Golf Challenge, which he was due to host.
The American, who has always enjoyed a clean-cut image, posted a statement on his website saying he regretted making mistakes in his home life.
“I have let my family down and I regret those transgressions with all of my heart,” said Woods.
“I have not been true to my values and the behaviour my family deserves. I am not without faults and I am far short of perfect. I am dealing with my behaviour and personal failings behind closed doors with my family. Those feelings should be shared by us alone.”
Woods said he had been shocked by the level of intrusion he had suffered and denied suggestions that he and wife Elin had fought in moments before the crash.
“Although I am a well-known person and have made my career as a professional athlete, I have been dismayed to realise the full extent of what tabloid scrutiny really means,” he said. “The stories that physical violence played any role in the car accident were utterly false and malicious. Elin has always done more to support our family and shown more grace than anyone could possibly expect.”
Woods added: “Personal sins should not require press releases and problems within a family shouldn’t have to mean public confessions.”