The tiger comes out of his cave to apologize

(Photo courtesy of Google.com)

 It has been almost three months since the Tiger Woods saga began, but the world’s number one golfer finally gave people what they wanted: an apology.

“I want to say to each of you, simply, and directly, I am deeply sorry for [the] irresponsible and selfish behavior I engaged in,” said Woods in a press conference Feb. 19, 2010.     

The press conference left many people doubting the sincerity of the apology, however, it left me questioning the necessity of it.           

While Tiger’s acts were undoubtedly irresponsible, did he really need to apologize to anyone besides his wife and kids?            

Was the world-wide obsession with Woods’ personal life and marital issues appropriate, or even reasonable?  Tiger certainly did not think so.             

“These are issues between a husband and a wife,” said Woods. 

“Whatever my wrongdoings, for the sake of my family, please leave my wife and kids alone.”And for those who doubted the sincerity of his apology realize that the global icon isn’t exactly getting off easy.  

 His life fell apart faster than he could crash an Escalade into a tree.  Woods went from being one of the most idolized and respected people in the world, to being the butt of the every joke.  The future of Woods’ family was put in limbo as rumors started building.  Now he and his wife, Elin, are left trying to save their marriage.

His bank account paid the price as well when he lost endorsement deals with companies like Nike, Tag Heur and GilletteIgnoring the constant public humiliation, the loss of endorsements and the looming threat of divorce, Tiger must at least be sorry that his behavior has kept him off the golf course and paused his pursuit of PGA records.Woods is just the latest celebrity to fall victim to unrelenting public scrutiny brought about by tabloids and paparazzi.  Even some of the women Woods had relationships with are getting their moment in the spotlight thanks to media fueled obsession with his private affairs.  The press can make you or break you and they only want to break Tiger.Even professional golfer Ernie Els threw Tiger under the bus when he questioned the timing of the press conference.  “Monday’s are a good day to make statements, not Fridays,” Els said.  “This takes a lot away from the tournament.”

Be honest with yourself Ernie, the only thing that Tiger did to take away from the tournament was not playing in it.  

While people will continue to doubt, question and criticize Tiger’s every move, I firmly believe him when he says he is sorry.  If you are too stubborn to accept his apology, then at least respect his wishes and give him some privacy.

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