Tiger Woods Apologizes For "Selfish Behavior", May Return In 2010

Sports News - February 19th, 2010 - Written By John Ritter

In a loaded speech that was part apology, part chaste of the Paparazzi, Tiger Woods finally apologized to media members, fans and PGA Tour for his various "affairs" during a public speech on Friday morning. In a tearful monologue, Woods confirmed that he will return to sex rehabilitation this weekend, although no target date for his return to golf was set.

"I do plan to return to golf one day, I just don't know when that day will be."

Speaking in a small room to about two dozen invited reporters, Woods admitted to his affairs, and even said the he once believed he was "entitled" to "enjoying the temptations of life" because of money and fame.

"I am deeply sorry for my irresponsible and selfish behavior," he saidt. "I know I have bitterly disappointed all of you. I am embarrassed that I have put you in this position. I have a lot to atone for.

"I thought I could get away with anything I wanted to. ... I thought I was entitled," he said. "Thanks to money and fame, I didn't have to go far to find it..."

He did not answer questions, so his return to golf is still unknown, but Woods did admit that a return this year is possible.

"When I do return, I need to make my behavior more respectful of the game," he said.

Woods also added that he is re-newing his Buddhist faith to help cope with the situation.

The no. 1 player in the world has been out of the sport since his extramarital affairs went viral, and his marriage with Elin Nordegren crumbled. Over a dozen mistresses have gone public, saying Woods spent multiple evenings with them and maintained constant contact. Woods wrecked his Cadillac Escalade on Thanksgiving night, and details of the incident indicate he was trying to evade Nordegren after she found out about the affairs.

But he contested that he and Nordegren ever had a domestic dispute, and said that he was not struck by her on Thanksgiving night.

"Elin never hit me that night, or any other night," he said.

He said he is working with Nordegren on repairing their marriage and asked the media to respect their privacy.

"Our issues are between a husband and a wife," he said.

"I was unfaithful. I had affairs. I cheated. What I did was unacceptable and I am the only person to blame," he said. "Leave my wife and kids alone. I brought this on myself."

Woods' scripted speech then went on the offensive, calling on blood-thirsty photographers and journalists to stop hounding his family. There are currently no odds on his return in Golf Betting Lines.