Tiger Woods says he’ll play the Masters

By Dan Duggan | Tuesday, March 16, 2010 | http://www.bostonherald.com | Golf

Tiger Woods made his name at the Masters. Now that’s where he’ll take his first step toward restoring it.

There has been much speculation about when Woods would return to the course after months of scandal involving his infidelity. That he chose to return at Augusta National Golf Club on April 8 is not a surprise. It’s the site where Woods’ career sky-rocketed after he won the 1997 tournament.

“The Masters is where I won my first major, and I view this tournament with great respect,” Woods said in a release on his Web site. “After a long and necessary time away from the game, I feel like I’m ready to start my season at Augusta.”

Woods has kept a low profile since crashing his SUV outside his Isleworth, Fla., home in November. In the wake of the crash, numerous women came forward to reveal that they had affairs with Woods.

In his statement, Woods said he has undergone nearly two months of impatient therapy and he plans to continue treatment. The New York Post ran a photo in today’s edition of Woods and his wife, Elin Nordegen near their home. It is the first time the couple has been spotted together in public since the accident.

Woods issued a public apology on Feb. 19 during a 13-minute statement. After that, the next step was a return to the course.

“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,” Woods said on his Web site.

Making his return at Augusta should also help Woods avoid a media circus. The exclusive club keeps tight reins on media coverage, perhaps making it tough for paparazzi outlets like TMZ to get access.

“I would also like to thank the Augusta National members and staff for their support,” Woods said. “I have deep appreciation for everything that they do to create a wonderful event for the benefit of the game.”

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