Tiger Woods Returns To Golf
16th March, 2010
According to the Telegraph Tiger Woods is to make his return to Golf and will tee up at Augusta National on 8th April. It has been five months since it was revealed to the world the star’s infidelity which resulted in his withdrawal from the sport and a stint in rehab.
The golfer was pictured practicing his swing amongst speculation that he could return in the unofficial Tavistock Cup on Monday and Tuesday and in the Arnold Palmer invitational later in the week.
Woods has confirmed that Augusta will be his first tournament back, which is a decision which may anger some of his fellow professionals.
"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," said Woods in a statement.
"I called both Joe Lewis and Arnold Palmer and expressed my regrets for not attending the Tavistock Cup (next Monday and Tuesday) and the Arnold Palmer Invitational (from March 25-28).
"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."
Augusta National chairman Billy Payne said in a different statement: "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."
Sky Bet is offering a multitude of golf betting markets for the world number 1 which includes: 4/1 for Woods to win the first major of 2010 and 4/7 to finish above his fellow countryman Phil Mickelson. Woods is backed at 9/1 to be leading the Masters after the first round and 14/1 he leads from start to finish (including ties).
Sky Bet’s golf betting expert John Rhodes said: “With Woods being out of golf since last November, it remains to be seen whether he can shake off the rust in time to capture another Green Jacket. The heat and spotlight will definitely be on Woods for the week and it will be very interesting to see if he can overcome all the obstacles to get himself within a chance of landing the 1st Major of 2010."
By Chris M
