Tiger Woods to make golf comeback at Augusta Masters
Tiger Woods to make long-awaited comeback to golf at Augusta Masters, world number one confirms
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Tuesday, 16, Mar 2010 06:02
By Matthew Champion.
Tiger Woods will make his long-awaited comeback to golf at the Augusta Masters next month, the world's number one has confirmed on his official website.
The 14-time Major winner has not played since winning the Australian Masters last autumn.
He took an indefinite break from the game and checked himself into a sex addiction clinic after admitting to a string of infidelities from wife Elin Nordegren that emerged after his infamous car crash in late November.
PGA Tour commissioner Tim Finchem was expected to announce when Woods would make his comeback at a press conference last night but he was unable to confirm any details.
It had already looked increasingly unlikely that world number one Woods, 34, would feature in either next week's Tavistock Cup or Arnold Palmer Invitational.
In a statement on his official website the 34-year-old ended fevered speculation when he confirmed he would make his return at the Augusta National Golf Club in April.
"The Masters is where I won my first major, and I view this tournament with great respect," he said.
"After a long and necessary time away from the game, I feel like I'm ready to start my season at Augusta.
"The major championships have always been a special focus in my career and, as a professional, I think Augusta is where I need to be, even though it's been a while since I last played.
"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."