Payne: Woods disappointed all of us

Augusta National chairman critical of Woods in pre-Masters address

Augusta National chairman Billy Payne has criticized Tiger Woods’ off-course behaviour in his annual pre-Masters address.

Speaking ahead of the first major of the season getting underway, Payne said that Woods had “disappointed us all” with his sex scandal but also welcomed the world No.1 back to professional tournament golf.

“We are aware of the significance this week to a very special player,” said Payne. “As he ascended in our rankings of the world’s great golfers, he became an example to our kids that success is directly attributable to hard work and effort.

“But as he now says himself, he forgot in the process to remember that with fame and fortune comes responsibility, not invisibility.

“It is not simply the degree of his conduct that is so egregious here; it is the fact that he disappointed all of us, and more importantly, our kids and our grandkids. Our hero did not live up to the expectations of the role model we saw for our children.”

“Is there a way forward? I hope yes, I think yes. But certainly his future will never again be measured only by his performance against par, but measured by the sincerity of his efforts to change. I hope he now realizes that every kid he passes on the course wants his swing, but would settle for his smile.”

This week’s Masters is Tiger’s first professional golf event since he won the Australian Masters in November and sees him attempt to win his 15th major in his pursuit of Jack Nicklaus’ record haul of 18.

However, Payne stressed that he hopes Woods’ difficulties will have reminded him that there is more to life than surpassing the Golden Bear’s major total.

“I hope he can come to understand that life’s greatest rewards are reserved for those who bring joy to the lives of other people,” said Payne. “We at Augusta hope and pray that our great champion will begin his new life here tomorrow in a positive, hopeful and constructive manner, but this time, with a significant difference from the past.”

Bryce Ritchie is the Editor of bunkered and, in addition to leading on content and strategy, oversees all aspects of the brand. The first full-time journalist employed by bunkered, he joined the company in 2001 and has been editor since 2009. A member of Balfron Golfing Society, he currently plays off nine and once got a lesson from Justin Thomas’ dad.

Editor of bunkered