Tiger Woods on Monday announced that he will be withdrawing from this weekend's&nbsp;Hero World Challenge. Woods said he developed&nbsp;an injury to his right heel which forced him to sit out the charity tournament, here in the Bahamas.&nbsp;

After the&nbsp;announcement, the fans and the organisers were left rather disappointed as Woods hadn't been seen in action after appearing at St Andrews for The Open Championship in July.

The 15-time Major champion&nbsp;hosts the Hero World Challenge and it was supposed to be one of the three events he had been pencilled to take part in, till the end of the year. Skipping the event in the Bahamas is expected to affect Woods' official World Golf Ranking.&nbsp;

WION's Sports Editor Digvijay Singh Deo caught up with&nbsp;Martin&nbsp;Dempster, chairman of the Association of Golf Writers and analysed the impact of Woods' withdrawal and if his 'aura' was fading.&nbsp;

"Two hours ago we were still&nbsp;confident that Tiger Woods was going to play this weekend. Then to see him put out a statement that he has got a problem...he will still be here as the host but we all are feeling a bit disappointed," said&nbsp;Dempster.&nbsp;

When asked if the buzz that the 46-year-old commanded on the golf turf was fading with&nbsp;injuries not healing and him being forced out of tournaments, Dempster said age was catching up with Woods.&nbsp;

"Very much so. No doubt age is a factor. All the injuries he has had, they are catching up now. But what we have seen from him this year -- I'm not surprised. He played at Masters and&nbsp;he did really well to play four rounds at Augusta. It was cold. Then the US PGA Championship. He struggled there. Sat out the US Open but was determined to be at St. Andrews for the 150th Open," said Dempster.&nbsp;

"This is a reminder to everyone that Tiger Woods is fragile these days. He is not Superman. He has never been. People have thought he is Superman. But as you get older, these things catch up."&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-kerry-packer-revolutionised-cricket-and-ipl-came-out-of-it-says-greg-norman-on-liv-golf-model-523306">Read more:&nbsp;Exclusive: Kerry Packer revolutionised cricket and IPL came out of it, says Greg Norman on LIV Golf model</a>

Quizzed if&nbsp;Tiger Woods still believed that he can come around and win major trophies by being on the tour for weeks, Dempster sounded optimistic,&nbsp;"If Tiger is fit on a given week, he still has the game. He hasn't been able to do that on a regular basis but Phil Mickelson won a major at 50. Tiger Woods would love to take that record away from him."

"Tiger has proved strong in the past when he came back and won the masters. We should never write off. But as he gets older with the injuries, especially that car crash -- we have to be careful what we expect from him in the next year or coming five years," added Dempster.&nbsp;

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With injuries taking a toll on Woods' body, questions have been arising if the golfing talisman might be transitioning to a leadership role on the PGA tour. Dempster said that PGA may be looking to lean on him.&nbsp;

"All through his career, he has been a big influence. All the players look up to him. Rory McIlroy, Justin Thomas, all these players have so much respect for him. They know that the platform they play on today has been created by Tiger. He has had a lot more time on his hands lately.&nbsp;There has been a lot of good things going around in golf. He&nbsp;has been to meeting and PGA may be looking to lean onto Tiger to get his advice and support over the next few weeks."

Asked if Woods will be doing exhibitions as his playing career draws to a close,&nbsp;Dempster said,&nbsp;"Tiger Woods does not do exhibitions. Never has. Never will. He is not going to come up and make the numbers. Ever."

If Woods' injuries subside, he is expected to&nbsp;take on Jordan Spieth and Justin Thomas in a rather hotly-anticipated edition of 'The Match' scheduled to take place in Florida on December 10. Afterwards, he is expected to join his talented son Charlie in the PNC Championship where the duo finished second last year.&nbsp;

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Tiger Woods on Monday announced that he will be withdrawing from this weekend's Hero World Challenge. Woods said he developed an injury to his right heel which forced him to sit out the charity tournament, here in the Bahamas.

Tiger Woods on Monday announced that he will be withdrawing from this weekend's Hero World Challenge. Woods said he developed an injury to his right heel which forced him to sit out the charity tournament, here in the Bahamas. After the announcement, the fans and the organisers were left rather disappointed as Woods hadn't been seen in action after appearing at St Andrews for The Open Championship in July. The 15-time Major champion hosts the Hero World Challenge and it was supposed to be one of the three events he had been pencilled to take part in, till the end of the year. Skipping the event in the Bahamas is expected to affect Woods' official World Golf Ranking. WION's Sports Editor Digvijay Singh Deo caught up with Martin Dempster, chairman of the Association of Golf Writers and analysed the impact of Woods' withdrawal and if his 'aura' was fading. "Two hours ago we were still confident that Tiger Woods was going to play this weekend. Then to see him put out a statement that he has got a problem...he will still be here as the host but we all are feeling a bit disappointed," said Dempster. When asked if the buzz that the 46-year-old commanded on the golf turf was fading with injuries not healing and him being forced out of tournaments, Dempster said age was catching up with Woods. "Very much so. No doubt age is a factor. All the injuries he has had, they are catching up now. But what we have seen from him this year -- I'm not surprised. He played at Masters and he did really well to play four rounds at Augusta. It was cold. Then the US PGA Championship. He struggled there. Sat out the US Open but was determined to be at St. Andrews for the 150th Open," said Dempster. "This is a reminder to everyone that Tiger Woods is fragile these days. He is not Superman. He has never been. People have thought he is Superman. But as you get older, these things catch up." Read more: Exclusive: Kerry Packer revolutionised cricket and IPL came out of it, says Greg Norman on LIV Golf model Quizzed if Tiger Woods still believed that he can come around and win major trophies by being on the tour for weeks, Dempster sounded optimistic, "If Tiger is fit on a given week, he still has the game. He hasn't been able to do that on a regular basis but Phil Mickelson won a major at 50. Tiger Woods would love to take that record away from him." "Tiger has proved strong in the past when he came back and won the masters. We should never write off. But as he gets older with the injuries, especially that car crash -- we have to be careful what we expect from him in the next year or coming five years," added Dempster. pic.twitter.com/C2HPgSSCAK — Tiger Woods (@TigerWoods) November 28, 2022 × Read more: EXCLUSIVE | Anirban Lahiri likens Woods’ contempt for LIV Golf with Tendulkar skipping T20 World Cup With injuries taking a toll on Woods' body, questions have been arising if the golfing talisman might be transitioning to a leadership role on the PGA tour. Dempster said that PGA may be looking to lean on him. "All through his career, he has been a big influence. All the players look up to him. Rory McIlroy, Justin Thomas, all these players have so much respect for him. They know that the platform they play on today has been created by Tiger. He has had a lot more time on his hands lately. There has been a lot of good things going around in golf. He has been to meeting and PGA may be looking to lean onto Tiger to get his advice and support over the next few weeks." Asked if Woods will be doing exhibitions as his playing career draws to a close, Dempster said, "Tiger Woods does not do exhibitions. Never has. Never will. He is not going to come up and make the numbers. Ever." If Woods' injuries subside, he is expected to take on Jordan Spieth and Justin Thomas in a rather hotly-anticipated edition of 'The Match' scheduled to take place in Florida on December 10. Afterwards, he is expected to join his talented son Charlie in the PNC Championship where the duo finished second last year. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Exclusive: He is not Superman, says Martin Dempster after Tiger Woods withdraws from Hero Challenge

Tiger Woods has withdrawn from the Hero World Challenge in the Bahamas due to a heel injury. The 15-time Major winner has not played competitive golf since July. In an exclusive chat with Wion Sports Editor Digvijay Singh Deo , Martin Dempster, Chairman of the Golf Writers Association, believes the withdrawal serves as a reminder that Wood is 'fragile' these days.

Martin Dempster: Hero challenge withdrawal shows Woods not 'Superman'

Tiger&nbsp;Woods&nbsp;has won the PGA Tour's Player Impact Program (PIP) for a second consecutive year and with it the $15 million bonus given to the winner, according to results obtained by Reuters on Tuesday. Woods&nbsp;has played only nine rounds of golf across three majors in 2022 but remains the game's top draw as defined by the PIP, which measures a player's popularity based on five criteria like media mentions and broadcast exposure. World number one Rory McIlroy was rewarded with $12 million as the runner-up while Jordan Spieth ($9 million), Justin Thomas ($7.5 million) and Jon Rahm ($6 million) rounded out the top five, according to the memo sent to players.

Woods&nbsp;finished first in four of the five PIP categories, the only exception coming in "TV Sponsor Exposure" which measures the amount of time a player's sponsor logos appear on the screen during weekend PGA Tour telecasts. Woods&nbsp;only played three-weekend rounds this year, two at the Masters and one at the PGA Championship. The PIP was implemented in 2021 as a way to reward members who, through a series of metrics, are shown to drive the most positive interest in the PGA Tour. The program was expanded this year to include the top 20 players and $100 in total payouts, up from 10 players and $40 million last year.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-chaos-in-kerala-as-fans-donning-brazil-argentina-jerseys-at-war-amid-fifa-world-cup-2022-536642">WATCH: Chaos in Kerala as fans donning Brazil, Argentina jerseys at war amid FIFA World Cup 2022</a>

Masters champion Scottie Scheffler ($5.5 million) was sixth on the list while the next four players -- Xander Schauffele, U.S. Open winner Matt Fitzpatrick, Will Zalatoris and Tony Finau each earned $5 million. Collin Morikawa, Shane Lowry, Kevin Kisner, Max Homa and Billy Horschel were 11th-15th, respectively, and each earned $3 million. Rickie Fowler, Adam Scott, Jason Day, Patrick Cantlay and Viktor Hovland rounded out the top 20 and will each get $2 million. Hideki Matsuyama, Cameron Young and Sam Burns -- who would have qualified under the slightly-modified criteria being used for 2023 -- were added to the list and will each get $2 million.

Tiger Woods has won the PGA Tour's Player Impact Program (PIP) for a second consecutive year and with it the $15 million bonus given to the winner, according to results obtained by Reuters on Tuesday.

Tiger Woods has won the PGA Tour's Player Impact Program (PIP) for a second consecutive year and with it the $15 million bonus given to the winner, according to results obtained by Reuters on Tuesday. Woods has played only nine rounds of golf across three majors in 2022 but remains the game's top draw as defined by the PIP, which measures a player's popularity based on five criteria like media mentions and broadcast exposure. World number one Rory McIlroy was rewarded with $12 million as the runner-up while Jordan Spieth ($9 million), Justin Thomas ($7.5 million) and Jon Rahm ($6 million) rounded out the top five, according to the memo sent to players. Woods finished first in four of the five PIP categories, the only exception coming in "TV Sponsor Exposure" which measures the amount of time a player's sponsor logos appear on the screen during weekend PGA Tour telecasts. Woods only played three-weekend rounds this year, two at the Masters and one at the PGA Championship. The PIP was implemented in 2021 as a way to reward members who, through a series of metrics, are shown to drive the most positive interest in the PGA Tour. The program was expanded this year to include the top 20 players and $100 in total payouts, up from 10 players and $40 million last year. Also read: WATCH: Chaos in Kerala as fans donning Brazil, Argentina jerseys at war amid FIFA World Cup 2022 Masters champion Scottie Scheffler ($5.5 million) was sixth on the list while the next four players -- Xander Schauffele, U.S. Open winner Matt Fitzpatrick, Will Zalatoris and Tony Finau each earned $5 million. Collin Morikawa, Shane Lowry, Kevin Kisner, Max Homa and Billy Horschel were 11th-15th, respectively, and each earned $3 million. Rickie Fowler, Adam Scott, Jason Day, Patrick Cantlay and Viktor Hovland rounded out the top 20 and will each get $2 million. Hideki Matsuyama, Cameron Young and Sam Burns -- who would have qualified under the slightly-modified criteria being used for 2023 -- were added to the list and will each get $2 million.

Tiger Woods bags PGA Tour's Player Impact Program, collects $15 million bonus

Tiger Woods said Wednesday he would be returning to action at the Hero World Challenge in what will be the golf great's first tournament since the British Open in July.&nbsp;

The 15-time major champion posted a Twitter message confirming his involvement in the 20-man tournament, where he is the host, at the Albany course in the Bahamas, from December 1-4.

Woods, a five-time winner of the event, is joined by American compatriot Kevin Kisner and England's Tommy Fleetwood in completing the field.

"I am excited to announce that I will be in the field for this year's #HeroWorldChallenge," Woods said. "A big welcome to @K_Kisner and @TommyFleetwood1 for joining us as well. See you soon at Albany!"

This week has seen Woods caddying for son Charlie this week and he recently said he intended to take part in 'The Match', a 12-hole exhibition, with Rory McIlroy, Jordan Spieth and Justin Thomas on December 10 in what could be a busy finish to a restricted 2022 schedule following his recovery from a career-threatening car crash.

The exhibition is set for the weekend before the PNC Championship in Orlando where Woods has previously played alongside Charlie.

Woods missed the cut at this year's British Open at St Andrews, having twice won the sport's oldest major at the Scottish course in 2000 and 2005.

The 46-year-old has appeared in just three professional tournaments this year, all of them majors.

Woods, who needed screws and metal rods to hold together his shattered right leg, made his return to competition 14 months after the accident at this year's Masters.

He finished 47th at Augusta but achieved a victory of sorts simply by walking 72 holes over the difficult layout.

He then withdrew from the PGA Championship after 54 holes, struggling with stamina issues after making the cut.

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Tiger Woods said Wednesday he would be returning to action at the Hero World Challenge in what will be the golf great's first tournament since the British Open in July.

Tiger Woods said Wednesday he would be returning to action at the Hero World Challenge in what will be the golf great's first tournament since the British Open in July. The 15-time major champion posted a Twitter message confirming his involvement in the 20-man tournament, where he is the host, at the Albany course in the Bahamas, from December 1-4. Woods, a five-time winner of the event, is joined by American compatriot Kevin Kisner and England's Tommy Fleetwood in completing the field. "I am excited to announce that I will be in the field for this year's #HeroWorldChallenge," Woods said. "A big welcome to @K_Kisner and @TommyFleetwood1 for joining us as well. See you soon at Albany!" This week has seen Woods caddying for son Charlie this week and he recently said he intended to take part in 'The Match', a 12-hole exhibition, with Rory McIlroy, Jordan Spieth and Justin Thomas on December 10 in what could be a busy finish to a restricted 2022 schedule following his recovery from a career-threatening car crash. The exhibition is set for the weekend before the PNC Championship in Orlando where Woods has previously played alongside Charlie. Woods missed the cut at this year's British Open at St Andrews, having twice won the sport's oldest major at the Scottish course in 2000 and 2005. The 46-year-old has appeared in just three professional tournaments this year, all of them majors. Woods, who needed screws and metal rods to hold together his shattered right leg, made his return to competition 14 months after the accident at this year's Masters. He finished 47th at Augusta but achieved a victory of sorts simply by walking 72 holes over the difficult layout. He then withdrew from the PGA Championship after 54 holes, struggling with stamina issues after making the cut. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Tiger Woods announces return to golf at Hero World Challenge

Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy will compete against fellow major winners Justin Thomas and Jordan Spieth at Pelican Golf Club in Belleair, Florida next month for the seventh edition of "The Match", Turner Sports said on Monday.

The 12-hole, made-for-TV exhibition on Dec. 10 will be played under the lights and will be the latest event for Woods, whose schedule this year has been limited to three starts after a February 2021 car crash that nearly cost him his right leg.

This will be Woods' third appearance in "The Match" after he lost to Phil Mickelson in the inaugural event in 2018 before getting some revenge in 2020 when he and former NFL quarterback Peyton Manning beat Mickelson and current NFL great Tom Brady.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/frances-caroline-garcia-defeats-aryna-sabalenka-to-seal-wta-finals-victory-532098">France's Caroline Garcia defeats Aryna Sabalenka to seal WTA Finals victory</a>

So far this year Woods has played in April at the Masters where he faded over the weekend and finished 47th, withdrew in pain from the PGA Championship after the third round in May and missed the cut at the British Open in July.

For world number one McIlroy, No. 8 Thomas and Spieth (13), this will mark their debut in the series, which this time will serve as a platform to benefit relief efforts for Hurricane Ian which hit Florida's Gulf Coast last month.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/now-im-one-of-you-seven-time-f1-champ-lewis-hamilton-tells-brazil-as-he-becomes-honorary-citizen-532068">Now I'm one of you: Seven-time F1 champ Lewis Hamilton tells Brazil as he becomes honorary citizen</a>

It will also be the second time the exhibition has been held this year after NFL quarterbacks Brady, Aaron Rodgers, Patrick Mahomes and Josh Allen played at Wynn Golf Club in Las Vegas in June.

Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy will compete against fellow major winners Justin Thomas and Jordan Spieth at Pelican Golf Club in Belleair, Florida next month for the seventh edition of "The Match", Turner Sports said on Monday.

Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy will compete against fellow major winners Justin Thomas and Jordan Spieth at Pelican Golf Club in Belleair, Florida next month for the seventh edition of "The Match", Turner Sports said on Monday. The 12-hole, made-for-TV exhibition on Dec. 10 will be played under the lights and will be the latest event for Woods, whose schedule this year has been limited to three starts after a February 2021 car crash that nearly cost him his right leg. This will be Woods' third appearance in "The Match" after he lost to Phil Mickelson in the inaugural event in 2018 before getting some revenge in 2020 when he and former NFL quarterback Peyton Manning beat Mickelson and current NFL great Tom Brady. Also Read: France's Caroline Garcia defeats Aryna Sabalenka to seal WTA Finals victory So far this year Woods has played in April at the Masters where he faded over the weekend and finished 47th, withdrew in pain from the PGA Championship after the third round in May and missed the cut at the British Open in July. For world number one McIlroy, No. 8 Thomas and Spieth (13), this will mark their debut in the series, which this time will serve as a platform to benefit relief efforts for Hurricane Ian which hit Florida's Gulf Coast last month. Also Read: Now I'm one of you: Seven-time F1 champ Lewis Hamilton tells Brazil as he becomes honorary citizen It will also be the second time the exhibition has been held this year after NFL quarterbacks Brady, Aaron Rodgers, Patrick Mahomes and Josh Allen played at Wynn Golf Club in Las Vegas in June.

Tiger Woods, Rory McIlroy, Justin Thomas and Jordan Spieth to play in 'The Match' next month

TMRW Sports, a tech-focused company co-founded by Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy, announced on Wednesday a star-studded investor group that includes tennis great Serena Williams and seven-times&nbsp;Formula&nbsp;One&nbsp;world champion Lewis Hamilton.

The team of investors also includes four-time NBA champion Stephen Curry, three-times tennis Grand Slam winner Andy Murray, Japanese two-way standout Shohei Ohtani of Major League Baseball and two-time women's World Cup champion Alex Morgan.

"From the very beginning our plan has been to partner with the best-in-class in every way imaginable and Tiger, Rory, and I value the support of this unrivalled team of investors, advisors, and ambassadors," TMRW Sports co-founder and Chief Executive Officer Mike McCarley said in a news release.

According to TMRW Sports, the initial investment group's sports experience also includes team ownership in every major league and ranges across F1, NFL, NBA, Premier League, MLB, NHL, MLS, tennis, esports, surfing, and golf.

TMRW Sports -- pronounced 'tomorrow sports' -- was launched in August with the goal of using technology to help create new pathways for the next generation to enjoy sports.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/novak-djokovic-starts-paris-masters-defence-with-routine-win-rublev-and-hurkacz-also-through-530455">Novak Djokovic starts Paris Masters defence with routine win, Rublev and Hurkacz also through</a>

A day after its launch, TMRW Sports said Woods and McIlroy would headline a Monday night team golf competition starting in 2024 that will feature PGA Tour players and combine virtual technology and a tech-infused short-game complex at a custom-built venue.

"TMRW Sports is redefining how the next generation of fans will play and consume sports by leveraging technology in unique and innovative ways," said Michael Blank of Connect Ventures which co-led the institutional investment.

"Connect Ventures is thrilled to work alongside this world-class group of investors to support Tiger, Rory and Mike's vision to further accelerate the evolution of sports and make it more accessible for all."

TMRW Sports, a tech-focused company co-founded by Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy, announced on Wednesday a star-studded investor group that includes tennis great Serena Williams and seven-times Formula One world champion Lewis Hamilton.

TMRW Sports, a tech-focused company co-founded by Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy, announced on Wednesday a star-studded investor group that includes tennis great Serena Williams and seven-times Formula One world champion Lewis Hamilton. The team of investors also includes four-time NBA champion Stephen Curry, three-times tennis Grand Slam winner Andy Murray, Japanese two-way standout Shohei Ohtani of Major League Baseball and two-time women's World Cup champion Alex Morgan. "From the very beginning our plan has been to partner with the best-in-class in every way imaginable and Tiger, Rory, and I value the support of this unrivalled team of investors, advisors, and ambassadors," TMRW Sports co-founder and Chief Executive Officer Mike McCarley said in a news release. According to TMRW Sports, the initial investment group's sports experience also includes team ownership in every major league and ranges across F1, NFL, NBA, Premier League, MLB, NHL, MLS, tennis, esports, surfing, and golf. TMRW Sports -- pronounced 'tomorrow sports' -- was launched in August with the goal of using technology to help create new pathways for the next generation to enjoy sports. ALSO READ | Novak Djokovic starts Paris Masters defence with routine win, Rublev and Hurkacz also through A day after its launch, TMRW Sports said Woods and McIlroy would headline a Monday night team golf competition starting in 2024 that will feature PGA Tour players and combine virtual technology and a tech-infused short-game complex at a custom-built venue. "TMRW Sports is redefining how the next generation of fans will play and consume sports by leveraging technology in unique and innovative ways," said Michael Blank of Connect Ventures which co-led the institutional investment. "Connect Ventures is thrilled to work alongside this world-class group of investors to support Tiger, Rory and Mike's vision to further accelerate the evolution of sports and make it more accessible for all."

Serena, Hamilton among big-name investors behind Tiger Woods- Rory McIlroy's TMRW Sports

South Korea's Tom Kim took advantage of a late error by Patrick Cantlay to win the Shriners Children's Open on Sunday and become the first player since Tiger Woods in 1996 to claim two PGA Tour victories before turning 21. The 20-year-old came into the final round tied for the lead with world number four Cantlay and secured the victory after his American opponent triple-bogeyed the final hole.

Kim finished with a five-under 66 to go 24-under overall in a bogey-free week at TPC Summerlin in Las Vegas. "I got very lucky on the 18th, I'm not going to lie," Kim told the Golf Channel broadcast. "Patrick played awesome and it was an honour to battle with him and to come out on top, I feel very fortunate. "I've got to give big credit to Joe (Skovron), my caddie. He really kept me in it and we had a really good gameplan coming into the week, and it paid off."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-asia-is-sleeping-giant-for-game-reaching-non-traditional-destinations-liv-golf-ceo-greg-norman-523325">Exclusive | Asia is sleeping giant to help game reach non-traditional destinations: LIV Golf CEO Greg Norman</a>

Victory was Kim's second PGA Tour title in his last four starts, following his triumph in the Wyndham Championship in August. "It's really amazing," Kim said. "A few months ago, I didn't have any status in the U.S. and now being a two-time winner on Tour, having that place with Tiger, it's an unbelievable feeling for me. It's an honour and definitely a dream come true.

"I've worked really hard, and my team has worked really hard to this point, and I'm just really grateful... I'm having fun playing on the PGA Tour. I'm a five-year-old at Disneyland."

South Korea's Tom Kim took advantage of a late error by Patrick Cantlay to win the Shriners Children's Open on Sunday and become the first player since Tiger Woods in 1996 to claim two PGA Tour victories before turning 21.

South Korea's Tom Kim took advantage of a late error by Patrick Cantlay to win the Shriners Children's Open on Sunday and become the first player since Tiger Woods in 1996 to claim two PGA Tour victories before turning 21. The 20-year-old came into the final round tied for the lead with world number four Cantlay and secured the victory after his American opponent triple-bogeyed the final hole. Kim finished with a five-under 66 to go 24-under overall in a bogey-free week at TPC Summerlin in Las Vegas. "I got very lucky on the 18th, I'm not going to lie," Kim told the Golf Channel broadcast. "Patrick played awesome and it was an honour to battle with him and to come out on top, I feel very fortunate. "I've got to give big credit to Joe (Skovron), my caddie. He really kept me in it and we had a really good gameplan coming into the week, and it paid off." ALSO READ | Exclusive | Asia is sleeping giant to help game reach non-traditional destinations: LIV Golf CEO Greg Norman Victory was Kim's second PGA Tour title in his last four starts, following his triumph in the Wyndham Championship in August. "It's really amazing," Kim said. "A few months ago, I didn't have any status in the U.S. and now being a two-time winner on Tour, having that place with Tiger, it's an unbelievable feeling for me. It's an honour and definitely a dream come true. "I've worked really hard, and my team has worked really hard to this point, and I'm just really grateful... I'm having fun playing on the PGA Tour. I'm a five-year-old at Disneyland."

South Korea's Tom Kim equals Tiger Woods' feat with Shriners Children's Open win

Tiger Woods, playing captain in a 2019 US victory, couldn't be an assistant at this week's Presidents Cup due to severe leg injuries suffered in a car crash last year. But that doesn't mean the 15-time major champion isn't helping US captain Davis Love and the American staff against the Internationals at Quail Hollow.

Love said Woods remains a key advisor even though it's from a distance. "We're including him, as usual," Love said. "He's having fun. He obviously misses it. I know he wishes he were here." Love called Woods during Thursday's opening matches while watching groups play the sixth hole. "We talked for a while," Love said. "I said, 'At least you're watching. You can call if you see anything.'

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/americans-take-4-1-lead-on-internationals-at-presidents-cup-519015">Americans take 4-1 lead on Internationals at Presidents Cup</a>

Woods made his comeback following the injuries at the Masters in April, 14 months after the auto accident in Southern California. He completed 72 holes over hilly Augusta National to finish 47th. Woods made the cut in May at the PGA Championship at Southern Hills but withdrew after struggling to a 79 in the third round. He also missed the cut in July at the British Open at St. Andrews.

Love could understand why Woods would not want to test himself over the hilly North Carolina layout this week."It's not easy," Love said. "We're banging around in a cart and walking up and down hills. I get it." World number eight Will Zalatoris, who won his first PGA title last month at Memphis, is at Quail Hollow after being unable to compete for the Americans due to two herniated discs in his back that will sideline him for several months. "It's good to be here. It's good to be with the guys," Zalatoris said. "But it is bittersweet."

Tiger Woods, playing captain in a 2019 US victory, couldn't be an assistant at this week's Presidents Cup due to severe leg injuries suffered in a car crash last year.

Tiger Woods, playing captain in a 2019 US victory, couldn't be an assistant at this week's Presidents Cup due to severe leg injuries suffered in a car crash last year. But that doesn't mean the 15-time major champion isn't helping US captain Davis Love and the American staff against the Internationals at Quail Hollow. Love said Woods remains a key advisor even though it's from a distance. "We're including him, as usual," Love said. "He's having fun. He obviously misses it. I know he wishes he were here." Love called Woods during Thursday's opening matches while watching groups play the sixth hole. "We talked for a while," Love said. "I said, 'At least you're watching. You can call if you see anything.' ALSO READ | Americans take 4-1 lead on Internationals at Presidents Cup Woods made his comeback following the injuries at the Masters in April, 14 months after the auto accident in Southern California. He completed 72 holes over hilly Augusta National to finish 47th. Woods made the cut in May at the PGA Championship at Southern Hills but withdrew after struggling to a 79 in the third round. He also missed the cut in July at the British Open at St. Andrews. Love could understand why Woods would not want to test himself over the hilly North Carolina layout this week."It's not easy," Love said. "We're banging around in a cart and walking up and down hills. I get it." World number eight Will Zalatoris, who won his first PGA title last month at Memphis, is at Quail Hollow after being unable to compete for the Americans due to two herniated discs in his back that will sideline him for several months. "It's good to be here. It's good to be with the guys," Zalatoris said. "But it is bittersweet."

Presidents Cup: Injured Tiger Woods helps US cause from a distance

On September 15 (Thursday), the dreaded day arrived as Roger Federer -- former world number one and winner of 20 Grand Slams&nbsp;-- announced that he will retire from tennis after this month's Laver Cup (from September 23-25).

The Swiss maestro tweeted, "As many of you know, the past three years have presented me with challenges in the form of injuries and surgeries. I've worked hard to return to full competitive form. But I also know my body's capacities and limits, and its message to me lately has been clear. I am 41 years old. I have played more than 1,500 matches over 24 years. Tennis has treated me more generously than I ever would have dreamt, and now I must recognise when it is time to end my competitive career."

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❤️ <a href="https://t.co/YxtVWrlXIF">pic.twitter.com/YxtVWrlXIF</a>
— Roger Federer (@rogerfederer) <a href="https://twitter.com/rogerfederer/status/1570402045085253632?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 15, 2022</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/you-inspired-countless-millions-serena-williams-welcomes-roger-federer-to-retirement-club-516712">'You inspired countless millions' - Serena Williams welcomes Roger Federer to retirement club</a>

Winning 103 singles titles in a career spanning 24 years, Federer transcended the sport as Tiger Woods, Sachin Tendulkar, and the likes did for their respective games. He started as a brat sporting a ponytail and would often smash racquets on the court in his early days&nbsp;but soon turned into a demigod for many, oozing calmness, serenity and&nbsp;righteousness with his presence.&nbsp;

The world of tennis will never stop gushing over Federer's backhand and drop shots, hitting half-volleys winners year after year, standing on the baseline,&nbsp;etc. A plethora of articles have covered a lot about his game. Legends&nbsp;have lavished huge praise on his staggering success. Many journalists have dedicated a sole book&nbsp;describing Federer's class and skills on the court. Even though his ardent fans are well aware of his playing style, one simply cannot get enough of&nbsp;the Swiss maestro.&nbsp;

It is a given that there won't be another Federer on the court. I, however,&nbsp;believe that&nbsp;there also won't be another like him who gave so much back to the game through his likable personality.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/reliving-arch-rivals-roger-federer-rafael-nadals-epic-camaraderie-over-the-years-video-516770">Reliving arch-rivals Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal's epic camaraderie over the years - Video</a>

The pinky promise made to a young fan

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Accepting defeats with utmost grace

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Losing&nbsp;5-7, 6-3, 6-7, 6-3, 2-6 to a then 22-year-old Rafael Nadal in the 2009 Australian Open final, an emotional Federer took some time to settle down but when he did, he was mature enough to 'not have the last word' during the presentation ceremony. He heaped praise on his opposition and said, "Rafa, congrats. You played incredible. You deserve it, man. All the best for the season'.

Federer instilled thoughtfulness in a young Nadal and schooled one and all to always take results -- favourable or not -- in the right manner.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-will-miss-seeing-you-on-the-court-making-us-enjoy-lionel-messi-all-praise-for-genius-roger-federer-516747">We will miss seeing you on the court making us enjoy: Lionel Messi all praise for 'genius' Roger Federer</a>

No pressure of leading in the Grand Slam title-race

After losing the Wimbledon 2019 final to Novak Djokovic -- which the Serbian won 7-6 (5), 1-6, 7-6 (4), 4-6, 13-12 (3) in an epic face-off in London -- Federer was still ahead with most GS titles (20). It took the then world no. 1 Djokovic to 16 major titles, two behind Nadal and&nbsp;trailing Federer's tally by four.

Federer, however, sidelined himself from the rat race for most titles. At the post-match presentation, he said, "You can't protect everything anyway. I didn't become a tennis player for that. I really didn't. It's about trying to win Wimbledon, trying to have good runs here, playing in front of such an amazing crowd in this Centre Court against players like Novak and so forth. That's what I play for. Yeah, so things are different now. But I'm very happy with my level of play nowadays still."

From helping a cancer patient with an inspirational message, ensuring the safety of his fans who went&nbsp;bonkers seeing him to applauding his opposition's on-court heroics against him, Federer was never the one to only win matches and titles. He also won hearts. He&nbsp;became the face of tennis not just for his magnanimous talent, envious skills, innumerable titles, and whopping net worth&nbsp;but for&nbsp;his humanitarian side.

<blockquote>
"Obviously being ultimate professional and a gentleman. Roger would say hello to literally everyone regardless of ranking and status. Very very few of the past champions were ever like that. He was not only a fan-favourite but a player-favourite as well," Mahesh Bhupathi to&nbsp;WION post Federer's retirement tweet.
</blockquote>

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/roger-federer-gives-classy-reponse-to-rival-rafael-nadals-heartfelt-message-for-him-on-retirement-517106">Roger Federer gives classy response to rival Rafael Nadal's heartfelt message for him on retirement</a>

Federer's simplicity, generosity, sportsmanship, etc. have been bigger takeaways&nbsp;for one and&nbsp;all. It is tough to pick between Federer the player versus&nbsp;Federer the human. No matter whichever option one picks, he, or she will always be a winner. What stands out is his giving more with his overall personality than only as a&nbsp;champion player.

I took an interest in tennis only due to my father's love of the game. I was fortunate enough to start following the sport when the Federer-Nadal rivalry was at its nascent stage. Back then (and to date), I have cheered for the Spaniard. You tend to hate your favourite player's (or team) arch-rival in your younger days. With time, it became inevitable to hate Federer. Not just as a player, he will sweep you off your feet with his charisma and genial personality.

There were greats before Federer (Andre Agassi, Pete Sampras, Margaret Court, Steffi Graf, etc.), and there will be more to follow. But there won't be another one matching his personality. PERIOD!&nbsp;

On September 15 (Thursday), the dreaded day arrived as Roger Federer -- former world number one and winner of 20 Grand Slams -- announced that he will retire from tennis after this month's Laver Cup (from September 23-25).

On September 15 (Thursday), the dreaded day arrived as Roger Federer -- former world number one and winner of 20 Grand Slams -- announced that he will retire from tennis after this month's Laver Cup (from September 23-25). The Swiss maestro tweeted, "As many of you know, the past three years have presented me with challenges in the form of injuries and surgeries. I've worked hard to return to full competitive form. But I also know my body's capacities and limits, and its message to me lately has been clear. I am 41 years old. I have played more than 1,500 matches over 24 years. Tennis has treated me more generously than I ever would have dreamt, and now I must recognise when it is time to end my competitive career." ❤️ pic.twitter.com/YxtVWrlXIF — Roger Federer (@rogerfederer) September 15, 2022 × ALSO READ | 'You inspired countless millions' - Serena Williams welcomes Roger Federer to retirement club Winning 103 singles titles in a career spanning 24 years, Federer transcended the sport as Tiger Woods, Sachin Tendulkar, and the likes did for their respective games. He started as a brat sporting a ponytail and would often smash racquets on the court in his early days but soon turned into a demigod for many, oozing calmness, serenity and righteousness with his presence. The world of tennis will never stop gushing over Federer's backhand and drop shots, hitting half-volleys winners year after year, standing on the baseline, etc. A plethora of articles have covered a lot about his game. Legends have lavished huge praise on his staggering success. Many journalists have dedicated a sole book describing Federer's class and skills on the court. Even though his ardent fans are well aware of his playing style, one simply cannot get enough of the Swiss maestro. It is a given that there won't be another Federer on the court. I, however, believe that there also won't be another like him who gave so much back to the game through his likable personality. ALSO READ | Reliving arch-rivals Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal's epic camaraderie over the years - Video The pinky promise made to a young fan × Accepting defeats with utmost grace × Losing 5-7, 6-3, 6-7, 6-3, 2-6 to a then 22-year-old Rafael Nadal in the 2009 Australian Open final, an emotional Federer took some time to settle down but when he did, he was mature enough to 'not have the last word' during the presentation ceremony. He heaped praise on his opposition and said, "Rafa, congrats. You played incredible. You deserve it, man. All the best for the season'. Federer instilled thoughtfulness in a young Nadal and schooled one and all to always take results -- favourable or not -- in the right manner. ALSO READ | We will miss seeing you on the court making us enjoy: Lionel Messi all praise for 'genius' Roger Federer No pressure of leading in the Grand Slam title-race After losing the Wimbledon 2019 final to Novak Djokovic -- which the Serbian won 7-6 (5), 1-6, 7-6 (4), 4-6, 13-12 (3) in an epic face-off in London -- Federer was still ahead with most GS titles (20). It took the then world no. 1 Djokovic to 16 major titles, two behind Nadal and trailing Federer's tally by four. Federer, however, sidelined himself from the rat race for most titles. At the post-match presentation, he said, "You can't protect everything anyway. I didn't become a tennis player for that. I really didn't. It's about trying to win Wimbledon, trying to have good runs here, playing in front of such an amazing crowd in this Centre Court against players like Novak and so forth. That's what I play for. Yeah, so things are different now. But I'm very happy with my level of play nowadays still." From helping a cancer patient with an inspirational message, ensuring the safety of his fans who went bonkers seeing him to applauding his opposition's on-court heroics against him, Federer was never the one to only win matches and titles. He also won hearts. He became the face of tennis not just for his magnanimous talent, envious skills, innumerable titles, and whopping net worth but for his humanitarian side. "Obviously being ultimate professional and a gentleman. Roger would say hello to literally everyone regardless of ranking and status. Very very few of the past champions were ever like that. He was not only a fan-favourite but a player-favourite as well," Mahesh Bhupathi to WION post Federer's retirement tweet. ALSO READ | Roger Federer gives classy response to rival Rafael Nadal's heartfelt message for him on retirement Federer's simplicity, generosity, sportsmanship, etc. have been bigger takeaways for one and all. It is tough to pick between Federer the player versus Federer the human. No matter whichever option one picks, he, or she will always be a winner. What stands out is his giving more with his overall personality than only as a champion player. I took an interest in tennis only due to my father's love of the game. I was fortunate enough to start following the sport when the Federer-Nadal rivalry was at its nascent stage. Back then (and to date), I have cheered for the Spaniard. You tend to hate your favourite player's (or team) arch-rival in your younger days. With time, it became inevitable to hate Federer. Not just as a player, he will sweep you off your feet with his charisma and genial personality. There were greats before Federer (Andre Agassi, Pete Sampras, Margaret Court, Steffi Graf, etc.), and there will be more to follow. But there won't be another one matching his personality. PERIOD!

Roger Federer retires: A Black Swan in tennis and GOAT beyond numbers

The LIV Golf vs PGA Tour debate continues to make headlines in golf. While the Greg Norman's LIV Golf Series is being criticised by many, it has signed up some big names in recent times. Among all, world number two Cameron Smith's joining has grabbed eyeballs at a whopping price,&nbsp;with the figure estimated&nbsp;to be $100 million (£85 million) as per&nbsp;journalist Daniel Rapaport.

A section has openly come hard to Smith for switching from PGA Tour to LIV Golf and, thus, the 29-year-old Aussie finally opened up on his recent move. While the British Open winner has the first to admit that money was a factor as well in his switch, he feels 'this is the future of golf'.&nbsp;

Speaking ahead of his debut in the LIV Golf Invitational Series in Boston this week, Smith spilled the beans on his decision to become a part of the Saudi-backed venture. He said, "You know, I'm just really excited to be here. This is a new kind of chapter in my life. I think this is the future of golf. I love how it is out here. It's a little bit more laid back on the range, the music playing. I love that stuff. I play music at home and yeah, I just can't wait to be a part of this.”

Further, he mentioned the pros of LIV Golf series and pointed out,&nbsp;"I think it needs to change. Particularly as our golf fans become younger, I think we need to do something to make it exciting for them. I think it's the right move for sure."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-liv-golf-has-definitely-been-a-catalyst-for-the-games-growth-says-anirban-lahiri-511660">EXCLUSIVE | LIV Golf has definitely been a catalyst for the game's growth, says Anirban Lahiri</a>

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"I've had a few phone calls with players. I sat down with Jay. We had a good conversation. It has been a little bit different. But this for me was the right decision. You know, I think this is the future of golf. I think it's been the same for a very, very long time, and it needs to be stirred up a little bit," Smith asserted further.

Like many other players, Smith also stressed that being closer to his family after joining LIV Golf Series is a huge asset. He added, "For me the biggest attraction was spending more time at home. Getting that part of my life back. It's something that I've really missed. I think obviously the pandemic that we've had over the last couple years didn't really help out, but you know, for me to be able to go home, see my family, and play golf there more often, that was a really big up for me."

The latest list of joinees on Liv Tour&nbsp;includes the likes of Chile's Joaquin Niemann, India's Anirban Lahiri,&nbsp;American duo Harold Varner and Cameron Tringale along with superstar Smith.

The LIV Golf vs PGA Tour debate continues to make headlines in golf. While the Greg Norman's LIV Golf Series is being criticised by many, it has signed up some big names in recent times.

The LIV Golf vs PGA Tour debate continues to make headlines in golf. While the Greg Norman's LIV Golf Series is being criticised by many, it has signed up some big names in recent times. Among all, world number two Cameron Smith's joining has grabbed eyeballs at a whopping price, with the figure estimated to be $100 million (£85 million) as per journalist Daniel Rapaport. A section has openly come hard to Smith for switching from PGA Tour to LIV Golf and, thus, the 29-year-old Aussie finally opened up on his recent move. While the British Open winner has the first to admit that money was a factor as well in his switch, he feels 'this is the future of golf'. Speaking ahead of his debut in the LIV Golf Invitational Series in Boston this week, Smith spilled the beans on his decision to become a part of the Saudi-backed venture. He said, "You know, I'm just really excited to be here. This is a new kind of chapter in my life. I think this is the future of golf. I love how it is out here. It's a little bit more laid back on the range, the music playing. I love that stuff. I play music at home and yeah, I just can't wait to be a part of this.” Further, he mentioned the pros of LIV Golf series and pointed out, "I think it needs to change. Particularly as our golf fans become younger, I think we need to do something to make it exciting for them. I think it's the right move for sure." ALSO READ | EXCLUSIVE | LIV Golf has definitely been a catalyst for the game's growth, says Anirban Lahiri × "I've had a few phone calls with players. I sat down with Jay. We had a good conversation. It has been a little bit different. But this for me was the right decision. You know, I think this is the future of golf. I think it's been the same for a very, very long time, and it needs to be stirred up a little bit," Smith asserted further. Like many other players, Smith also stressed that being closer to his family after joining LIV Golf Series is a huge asset. He added, "For me the biggest attraction was spending more time at home. Getting that part of my life back. It's something that I've really missed. I think obviously the pandemic that we've had over the last couple years didn't really help out, but you know, for me to be able to go home, see my family, and play golf there more often, that was a really big up for me." The latest list of joinees on Liv Tour includes the likes of Chile's Joaquin Niemann, India's Anirban Lahiri, American duo Harold Varner and Cameron Tringale along with superstar Smith.

'I think this is the future of golf' - Cameron Smith on his decision to sign-up for LIV Golf

India's top player Anirban Lahiri, who recently became the first Indian-origin player to join the ranks of the breakaway league LIV Golf,&nbsp;recently drew parallels between Tiger Woods and Sachin Tendulkar, commenting on Woods' reluctance to join the Saudi-backed tour and Tendulkar skipping the 2007 ICC T20 World Cup.&nbsp;

Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy recently joined forces to introduce a new league to counter the looming threat of the LIV Golf league. The TGL, which is the brainchild of TMRW Sports, a company that was founded with Woods and McIlroy's support. It&nbsp;was formed in partnership with the PGA Tour as it aims to attract a new set of eyes to the sport and to facilitate the influx of youngsters into the sport. The veteran Indian golfer discussed the prospects of the league while in conversation with&nbsp;WION Sports Editor Digvijay Singh Deo.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-liv-golf-has-definitely-been-a-catalyst-for-the-games-growth-says-anirban-lahiri-511660" hreflang="en">EXCLUSIVE | LIV Golf has definitely been a catalyst for the game's growth, says Anirban Lahiri</a>

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Excerpts:

Q. What do you make of this, what's been seen as sort of a power grab on the tour with Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy sort of leading the pushback against LIV Golf? There's a lot of people who say that it's only going to make those people who already have, much more richer with all these elevated tournaments. And that are people like you, who were the ones who were actually scrapping out there on the course to be financially independent, it was actually not going to work for you. While the tour's response was that all the stars come together, it will always be the likes of Anirban and others who were below that Top-60, Top-70 level who were really going to get affected. Do you see that, going forward, leading to more disgruntlement?&nbsp;

Again, I don't want to speculate, but the fact is that if you look at professional golf, it's one of the few sports where, you know, say the 100th guy on the PGA Tour makes a million dollars and I'm talking only about prize money. But if you look at the Top-20 or 25 players in the world or on the PGA Tour, they make $5-6 million, in a great year they may make more than that. But their endorsement values are 6x, 7x, 8x, some of them are 10x. Right? But the guys between 90-125 who are making a million., their endorsements are worth half-x, or 1x at most. So yeah, there is a huge disparity already, and that disparity may increase with elevated events.

But it's also going to make people aspire to break in. So it works. Like I said, it's very easy for me to look at the glass as half empty, but there is also a lot of half full to it. Yes, the absolute top, the creme de la creme, the Top-5, the Top-10, are definitely going to make exponentially more money going forward, not just from the elevated events, also from the other venture that Tiger and Rory are trying to spearhead and kind of birth, and in my opinion, it's all good. I don't care. As long as more golfers are created, as long as golf wins, as long as people say, 'Man, there is great opportunity in this sport, I want my kids to play this game.' I don't care. Because the sport is growing, there's going to be influx there's going to be TV and it's what it is.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/anriban-lahiri-becomes-first-indian-to-sign-up-with-rebel-liv-golf-tour-511561" hreflang="en">Anirban Lahiri becomes first Indian to sign up with rebel Liv Golf Tour</a>

So many people I've told, 'Man, why are you... shotgun start is three days, why are you doing this?' I'm like, When IPL, forget IPL, when T20 cricket started, 15-18 years ago, I know (Sachin Tendulkar) didn't go for the World Cup. He could have, he says, 'No, I'm not going to go.' So, we've got Sachin, we got (Tiger Woods), saying, 'I'm not going. This is not golf. I believe in this.' Which is fine, but who's to say that this doesn't become the IPL of tomorrow? Who's to say that this doesn't become the preferred, consumable format for golf? We don't know.&nbsp;&nbsp;

India's top player Anirban Lahiri, who recently became the first Indian-origin player to join the ranks of the breakaway league LIV Golf, recently drew parallels between Tiger Woods and Sachin Tendulkar, commenting on Woods' reluctance to join the Saudi-backed tour and Tendulkar skipping the 2007 ICC T20 World Cup.

India's top player Anirban Lahiri, who recently became the first Indian-origin player to join the ranks of the breakaway league LIV Golf, recently drew parallels between Tiger Woods and Sachin Tendulkar, commenting on Woods' reluctance to join the Saudi-backed tour and Tendulkar skipping the 2007 ICC T20 World Cup. Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy recently joined forces to introduce a new league to counter the looming threat of the LIV Golf league. The TGL, which is the brainchild of TMRW Sports, a company that was founded with Woods and McIlroy's support. It was formed in partnership with the PGA Tour as it aims to attract a new set of eyes to the sport and to facilitate the influx of youngsters into the sport. The veteran Indian golfer discussed the prospects of the league while in conversation with WION Sports Editor Digvijay Singh Deo. ALSO READ: EXCLUSIVE | LIV Golf has definitely been a catalyst for the game's growth, says Anirban Lahiri × Excerpts: Q. What do you make of this, what's been seen as sort of a power grab on the tour with Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy sort of leading the pushback against LIV Golf? There's a lot of people who say that it's only going to make those people who already have, much more richer with all these elevated tournaments. And that are people like you, who were the ones who were actually scrapping out there on the course to be financially independent, it was actually not going to work for you. While the tour's response was that all the stars come together, it will always be the likes of Anirban and others who were below that Top-60, Top-70 level who were really going to get affected. Do you see that, going forward, leading to more disgruntlement? Again, I don't want to speculate, but the fact is that if you look at professional golf, it's one of the few sports where, you know, say the 100th guy on the PGA Tour makes a million dollars and I'm talking only about prize money. But if you look at the Top-20 or 25 players in the world or on the PGA Tour, they make $5-6 million, in a great year they may make more than that. But their endorsement values are 6x, 7x, 8x, some of them are 10x. Right? But the guys between 90-125 who are making a million., their endorsements are worth half-x, or 1x at most. So yeah, there is a huge disparity already, and that disparity may increase with elevated events. But it's also going to make people aspire to break in. So it works. Like I said, it's very easy for me to look at the glass as half empty, but there is also a lot of half full to it. Yes, the absolute top, the creme de la creme, the Top-5, the Top-10, are definitely going to make exponentially more money going forward, not just from the elevated events, also from the other venture that Tiger and Rory are trying to spearhead and kind of birth, and in my opinion, it's all good. I don't care. As long as more golfers are created, as long as golf wins, as long as people say, 'Man, there is great opportunity in this sport, I want my kids to play this game.' I don't care. Because the sport is growing, there's going to be influx there's going to be TV and it's what it is. ALSO READ: Anirban Lahiri becomes first Indian to sign up with rebel Liv Golf Tour So many people I've told, 'Man, why are you... shotgun start is three days, why are you doing this?' I'm like, When IPL, forget IPL, when T20 cricket started, 15-18 years ago, I know (Sachin Tendulkar) didn't go for the World Cup. He could have, he says, 'No, I'm not going to go.' So, we've got Sachin, we got (Tiger Woods), saying, 'I'm not going. This is not golf. I believe in this.' Which is fine, but who's to say that this doesn't become the IPL of tomorrow? Who's to say that this doesn't become the preferred, consumable format for golf? We don't know.

EXCLUSIVE | Anirban Lahiri likens Woods’ contempt for LIV Golf with Tendulkar skipping T20 World Cup

On Tuesday (August 30), Anirban Lahiri became the first-ever Indian golfer to become a part of the LIV Golf Tour. The Saudi-backed LIV Series has grabbed a lot of eyeballs and faced the heat from plenty in the recent past, including veteran golfer Tiger Woods.&nbsp;

However, Lahiri joined a plethora of big names to be a part of LIV Golf, including British Open winner Cameron Smith. He has now become the&nbsp;first Asian to sign up with Liv Golf. The latest list of joinees on Liv Tour&nbsp;includes The Open champion&nbsp;Smith (Australia),&nbsp;Chile's Joaquin Niemann and American duo Harold Varner and Cameron Tringale. Hence, Lahiri's joining can be seen as an opportunity to target the ever-growing Asian golf market. While the financial details of the veteran Indian golfer are not known yet, the 35-year-old spoke to WION Sports Editor Digvijay Singh Deo and dwelled on the much-debated LIV Golf vs PGA Tour, his reason for making the switch and more.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/EXCLUSIVE?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#EXCLUSIVE</a> | Indian ace Anirban Lahiri was unveiled as a <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LIVGolf?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LIVGolf</a> player on Tuesday, and the 35-year-old will play the Boston invitational later this week. <a href="https://twitter.com/anirbangolf?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@anirbangolf</a> spoke to WION's <a href="https://twitter.com/DiggySinghDeo?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DiggySinghDeo</a> and explained why he felt the time was right to leave the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PGATour?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PGATour</a> <a href="https://t.co/O28AlyERbv">pic.twitter.com/O28AlyERbv</a>
— WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1564853646483156992?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 31, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Q. The breakaway LIV Golf series continues to defy its detractors. Six new players including World number two Cameron Smith have joined the LIV series. Anirban when did you decide to move on from PGA Tour?

I don't think it is the right way to put it, Diggy (smiles). It was about exploring another option. It was also exploring an alternative way. To answer your question, it was after the first event happened in London. Some of my friends were playing and I spoke to them. They said that while it has received a lot of scrutiny, it isn't what everybody is saying it is. That's when I started considering it and then it evolved from there.

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Q. What is it about LIV Golf that makes it worthwhile for you to join?

I think that is a good question. Everybody has joined for personal reasons. For me, I have been in the US, fully committed to the PGA Tour. It has been seven years. A lot of things have transpired in those seven years. I have tried to work on my form, fix my issues and keep my game in good shape. At times, when you come back from a tournament schedule, I have found it difficult to blow off steam. But it hasn't felt like it at times. I have become a father twice so it gets difficult. It especially gets difficult when you don't have a family, friends, or a support system that you would like to have, not just personally but for your kids. I've asked myself 'Why am I doing this?'. So, it also comes at a cost. It was always about coming back home, closer to India, give back to the game and contributing to my family.

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Welcome to LIV <a href="https://twitter.com/anirbangolf?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@anirbangolf</a> 👋<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LIVGolf?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LIVGolf</a> <a href="https://t.co/Z7viqmMp30">pic.twitter.com/Z7viqmMp30</a>
— LIV Golf (@LIVGolfInv) <a href="https://twitter.com/LIVGolfInv/status/1564605539795046405?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 30, 2022</a></blockquote>
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When LIV came along, I was like 'wow, here is an opportunity for me to actually make that all a reality'. With this schedule, I can still play 8-9 times or how many times they are going to play in the US. The scheduling will be done to maximise the travel. I will be playing in Asia, with young Indian professionals. I will be able to see my coach and have my family and friends. In a nutshell, the positives were outweighing the individual pursuit of my own goals.

<blockquote>
Speaking to Golf Digest, Smith had pointed out that the&nbsp;money was a “factor” but not the “biggest reason” why he decided on jumping from PGA Tour to LIV.

“It was obviously a business decision for one and an offer I couldn’t ignore,” Smith said.

“The biggest thing for me joining is [LIV’s] schedule is really appealing. I’ll be able to spend more time at home in Australia and maybe have an event down there, as well. I haven’t been able to do that, and to get that part of my life back was really appealing.”
</blockquote>

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/anriban-lahiri-becomes-first-indian-to-sign-up-with-rebel-liv-golf-tour-511561">Anirban Lahiri becomes first Indian to sign up with rebel Liv Golf Tour</a>

Q. You would've obviously weighed up the options. There are going to be new elevated tournaments. More money. Also, with your FedEx Cup rankings just outside the top 70, you would've got&nbsp;an opportunity to play all those events as a guaranteed starter, compared to the PGA Tour.

I think the changes brought forward are fantastic. This season is probably the best time to be a professional golfer because the opportunities are immense. If not because of LIV Golf, it has definitely been a catalyst. To answer your question, there are opportunities. I will be honest, if I was really happy with my life in the US and&nbsp;not come back, I could. The US government would run to give me a green card, being an athlete. I came to America because it was the best decision for my job.

If I was really happy, I wouldn't have left. Because you said very rightly that the financial aspects are there in the PGA Tour as well. But if you look at the opportunities in LIV Golf, I have plenty.

On Tuesday (August 30), Anirban Lahiri became the first-ever Indian golfer to become a part of the LIV Golf Tour. The Saudi-backed LIV Series has grabbed a lot of eyeballs and faced the heat from plenty in the recent past, including veteran golfer Tiger Woods.

On Tuesday (August 30), Anirban Lahiri became the first-ever Indian golfer to become a part of the LIV Golf Tour. The Saudi-backed LIV Series has grabbed a lot of eyeballs and faced the heat from plenty in the recent past, including veteran golfer Tiger Woods. However, Lahiri joined a plethora of big names to be a part of LIV Golf, including British Open winner Cameron Smith. He has now become the first Asian to sign up with Liv Golf. The latest list of joinees on Liv Tour includes The Open champion Smith (Australia), Chile's Joaquin Niemann and American duo Harold Varner and Cameron Tringale. Hence, Lahiri's joining can be seen as an opportunity to target the ever-growing Asian golf market. While the financial details of the veteran Indian golfer are not known yet, the 35-year-old spoke to WION Sports Editor Digvijay Singh Deo and dwelled on the much-debated LIV Golf vs PGA Tour, his reason for making the switch and more. #EXCLUSIVE | Indian ace Anirban Lahiri was unveiled as a #LIVGolf player on Tuesday, and the 35-year-old will play the Boston invitational later this week. @anirbangolf spoke to WION's @DiggySinghDeo and explained why he felt the time was right to leave the #PGATour pic.twitter.com/O28AlyERbv — WION (@WIONews) August 31, 2022 × Excerpts: Q. The breakaway LIV Golf series continues to defy its detractors. Six new players including World number two Cameron Smith have joined the LIV series. Anirban when did you decide to move on from PGA Tour? I don't think it is the right way to put it, Diggy (smiles). It was about exploring another option. It was also exploring an alternative way. To answer your question, it was after the first event happened in London. Some of my friends were playing and I spoke to them. They said that while it has received a lot of scrutiny, it isn't what everybody is saying it is. That's when I started considering it and then it evolved from there. × Q. What is it about LIV Golf that makes it worthwhile for you to join? I think that is a good question. Everybody has joined for personal reasons. For me, I have been in the US, fully committed to the PGA Tour. It has been seven years. A lot of things have transpired in those seven years. I have tried to work on my form, fix my issues and keep my game in good shape. At times, when you come back from a tournament schedule, I have found it difficult to blow off steam. But it hasn't felt like it at times. I have become a father twice so it gets difficult. It especially gets difficult when you don't have a family, friends, or a support system that you would like to have, not just personally but for your kids. I've asked myself 'Why am I doing this?'. So, it also comes at a cost. It was always about coming back home, closer to India, give back to the game and contributing to my family. Welcome to LIV @anirbangolf 👋#LIVGolf pic.twitter.com/Z7viqmMp30 — LIV Golf (@LIVGolfInv) August 30, 2022 × When LIV came along, I was like 'wow, here is an opportunity for me to actually make that all a reality'. With this schedule, I can still play 8-9 times or how many times they are going to play in the US. The scheduling will be done to maximise the travel. I will be playing in Asia, with young Indian professionals. I will be able to see my coach and have my family and friends. In a nutshell, the positives were outweighing the individual pursuit of my own goals. Speaking to Golf Digest, Smith had pointed out that the money was a “factor” but not the “biggest reason” why he decided on jumping from PGA Tour to LIV. “It was obviously a business decision for one and an offer I couldn’t ignore,” Smith said. “The biggest thing for me joining is [LIV’s] schedule is really appealing. I’ll be able to spend more time at home in Australia and maybe have an event down there, as well. I haven’t been able to do that, and to get that part of my life back was really appealing.” ALSO READ | Anirban Lahiri becomes first Indian to sign up with rebel Liv Golf Tour Q. You would've obviously weighed up the options. There are going to be new elevated tournaments. More money. Also, with your FedEx Cup rankings just outside the top 70, you would've got an opportunity to play all those events as a guaranteed starter, compared to the PGA Tour. I think the changes brought forward are fantastic. This season is probably the best time to be a professional golfer because the opportunities are immense. If not because of LIV Golf, it has definitely been a catalyst. To answer your question, there are opportunities. I will be honest, if I was really happy with my life in the US and not come back, I could. The US government would run to give me a green card, being an athlete. I came to America because it was the best decision for my job. If I was really happy, I wouldn't have left. Because you said very rightly that the financial aspects are there in the PGA Tour as well. But if you look at the opportunities in LIV Golf, I have plenty.

EXCLUSIVE | LIV Golf has definitely been a catalyst for the game's growth, says Anirban Lahiri

Swiss maestro Roger Federer's last appearance came in Wimbledon 2021, where he bowed out of the showpiece event in the quarter-finals. Since then, the former World number one has been missing from action. Despite being out of action, Federer still hogs the headlines as he has been named the highest-paid tennis player for the 17th year in a row (since 2005), as revealed by Forbes.

The list continues to be headed by Argentina captain and Paris Saint Germain (PSG) Lionel Messi whereas the likes of LeBron James (2nd spot) Cristiano Ronaldo (3rd spot), Neymar (4th spot), Stephen Curry (5th spot) make the top-five. Here's the top ten of the highest-paid athletes:

1. Lionel Messi - $130 million

2. LeBron James - $121.2 million

3. Cristiano Ronaldo - $115 million

4. Neymar - $95 million

5. Stephen Curry - $92.8 million

6. Kevin Durant - $92.1 million

7. Roger Federer - $90.7 million

8. Canelo Alvarez - $90 million

9. Tom Brady - $83.9 million

10. Giannis Antetokounmpo - $80.9 million

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cristiano-ronaldo-brutally-axed-by-man-united-manager-erik-ten-hag-infront-of-entire-squad-report-510275">Cristiano Ronaldo brutally 'axed' by Man United manager Erik Ten Hag infront of entire squad: Report</a>

Talking about Federer, it is to be noted that the 20-time Grand Slam winner was out of action but still raked in an approximate $90 million before taxes and agents' fees over the last year to top the list among the tennis players, with the heavy amount coming in the form of "endorsements, appearances and other business endeavours". 
 
Among the female tennis players, Naomi Osaka (19th spot) and Serena Williams (31st position) are the top two. Soon-to-retire Williams&nbsp;earned a whopping $35.1 million this year, going past former men's number one&nbsp;Rafael Nadal ($31.4 million) and Novak Djokovic ($27.1 million). Among the top-ten tennis players, Emma Raducanu (sixth), Daniil Medvedev (seventh),&nbsp;Kei Nishikori,&nbsp;Venus Williams and&nbsp;Spanish sensation Carlos Alcaraz complete the top 10 respectively.

Overall, the top-50 list features Tiger Woods (14th spot), Lewis Hamilton (17th), Max Verstappen (21st), Phil Mickelson (joint-31st with Serena), Mohammad Salah (33rd), Frenchman Kylian Mbappe and Conor McGregor (35th), Jake Paul (46th).&nbsp;

Swiss maestro Roger Federer's last appearance came in Wimbledon 2021, where he bowed out of the showpiece event in the quarter-finals. Since then, the former World number one has been missing from action.

Swiss maestro Roger Federer's last appearance came in Wimbledon 2021, where he bowed out of the showpiece event in the quarter-finals. Since then, the former World number one has been missing from action. Despite being out of action, Federer still hogs the headlines as he has been named the highest-paid tennis player for the 17th year in a row (since 2005), as revealed by Forbes. The list continues to be headed by Argentina captain and Paris Saint Germain (PSG) Lionel Messi whereas the likes of LeBron James (2nd spot) Cristiano Ronaldo (3rd spot), Neymar (4th spot), Stephen Curry (5th spot) make the top-five. Here's the top ten of the highest-paid athletes: 1. Lionel Messi - $130 million 2. LeBron James - $121.2 million 3. Cristiano Ronaldo - $115 million 4. Neymar - $95 million 5. Stephen Curry - $92.8 million 6. Kevin Durant - $92.1 million 7. Roger Federer - $90.7 million 8. Canelo Alvarez - $90 million 9. Tom Brady - $83.9 million 10. Giannis Antetokounmpo - $80.9 million ALSO READ | Cristiano Ronaldo brutally 'axed' by Man United manager Erik Ten Hag infront of entire squad: Report Talking about Federer, it is to be noted that the 20-time Grand Slam winner was out of action but still raked in an approximate $90 million before taxes and agents' fees over the last year to top the list among the tennis players, with the heavy amount coming in the form of "endorsements, appearances and other business endeavours". Among the female tennis players, Naomi Osaka (19th spot) and Serena Williams (31st position) are the top two. Soon-to-retire Williams earned a whopping $35.1 million this year, going past former men's number one Rafael Nadal ($31.4 million) and Novak Djokovic ($27.1 million). Among the top-ten tennis players, Emma Raducanu (sixth), Daniil Medvedev (seventh), Kei Nishikori, Venus Williams and Spanish sensation Carlos Alcaraz complete the top 10 respectively. Overall, the top-50 list features Tiger Woods (14th spot), Lewis Hamilton (17th), Max Verstappen (21st), Phil Mickelson (joint-31st with Serena), Mohammad Salah (33rd), Frenchman Kylian Mbappe and Conor McGregor (35th), Jake Paul (46th).

Roger Federer highest-paid tennis player in Forbes' list of athletes with Lionel Messi at top

In their latest move against the rival breakaway series LIV Golf, Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy have jointly launched a new startup, TMRW Sports, which will aim to use technology to pave&nbsp;the way for arena and stadium-centric golf events to attract new eyes to the sport and cultivate a younger audience.

Pronounced tomorrow sports, the company will promote&nbsp;“progressive approaches to sports, media, and entertainment”, said a press release put out by the company.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/how-many-stories-do-you-have-man-citys-benjamin-mendy-asked-police-after-being-arrested-for-rape-509797" hreflang="en">'How many stories do you have?': Man City's Benjamin Mendy asked police after being arrested for rape</a>

McIlroy's&nbsp;Symphony Ventures and Woods' TGR Ventures are believed to be the first set of investors in the startup. The company aims to bring the world's best golfers together to compete in a stadium-based skills competition series.

"So many athletes, entertainers, and people I meet from all walks of life share our passion for sports, but they also share our desire to build a better future for the next generation of sports fans,"&nbsp;said Woods in&nbsp;the&nbsp;press release.

It is said to be partnering with the PGA Tour in some capacity as each one-day contest would be designed to complement the existing PGA schedule. It is expected to be launched as early as 2024. The event will most likely take place during the months of January through March.

"By joining forces with Tiger, Mike, and other TMRW Sports partners, we can shape the way that media and technology improve the sports experience,"&nbsp;said&nbsp;McIlroy.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dont-leave-you-sh-basd-real-madrid-star-valverdes-girlfriend-to-casemiro-ahead-of-man-utd-move-509707" hreflang="en">'Don't leave you sh** bas***d': Real Madrid star Valverde's girlfriend to Casemiro ahead of Man Utd move</a>

The deep-pocketed Saudi breakaway league, LIV Golf, has successfully lured away a myriad of the PGA Tour's stars, including&nbsp;Dustin Johnson,&nbsp;Bryson DeChambeau, Phil Mickelson, and Brooks Koepka.

However, the likes of Woods and McIlroy have held strong against the advances of LIV Golf, reportedly turning down a whopping&nbsp;$800million offer to join the ranks of the breakaway league. Some of the biggest stars who frequently feature on the PGA Tour convened in Delaware to discuss their prospects in the battle against the Saudi-backed league.

Solutions included coming out with&nbsp;18 no-cut tournaments, featuring about 60 players, going head to head against each other with purses worth&nbsp;$20 million hanging in the balance. It is interesting to note that LIV Golf offers&nbsp;$25 million purses.

In their latest move against the rival breakaway series LIV Golf, Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy have jointly launched a new startup, TMRW Sports, which will aim to use technology to pave the way for arena and stadium-centric golf events to attract new eyes to the sport and cultivate a younger audience.

In their latest move against the rival breakaway series LIV Golf, Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy have jointly launched a new startup, TMRW Sports, which will aim to use technology to pave the way for arena and stadium-centric golf events to attract new eyes to the sport and cultivate a younger audience. Pronounced tomorrow sports, the company will promote “progressive approaches to sports, media, and entertainment”, said a press release put out by the company. ALSO READ: 'How many stories do you have?': Man City's Benjamin Mendy asked police after being arrested for rape McIlroy's Symphony Ventures and Woods' TGR Ventures are believed to be the first set of investors in the startup. The company aims to bring the world's best golfers together to compete in a stadium-based skills competition series. "So many athletes, entertainers, and people I meet from all walks of life share our passion for sports, but they also share our desire to build a better future for the next generation of sports fans," said Woods in the press release. It is said to be partnering with the PGA Tour in some capacity as each one-day contest would be designed to complement the existing PGA schedule. It is expected to be launched as early as 2024. The event will most likely take place during the months of January through March. "By joining forces with Tiger, Mike, and other TMRW Sports partners, we can shape the way that media and technology improve the sports experience," said McIlroy. ALSO READ: 'Don't leave you sh** bas***d': Real Madrid star Valverde's girlfriend to Casemiro ahead of Man Utd move The deep-pocketed Saudi breakaway league, LIV Golf, has successfully lured away a myriad of the PGA Tour's stars, including Dustin Johnson, Bryson DeChambeau, Phil Mickelson, and Brooks Koepka. However, the likes of Woods and McIlroy have held strong against the advances of LIV Golf, reportedly turning down a whopping $800million offer to join the ranks of the breakaway league. Some of the biggest stars who frequently feature on the PGA Tour convened in Delaware to discuss their prospects in the battle against the Saudi-backed league. Solutions included coming out with 18 no-cut tournaments, featuring about 60 players, going head to head against each other with purses worth $20 million hanging in the balance. It is interesting to note that LIV Golf offers $25 million purses.

Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy spearhead joint charge against LIV Golf, launch tech-focused firm

"I just don't understand it," golf legend Tiger Woods had said on the format of the breakaway LIV Golf Series while tearing into the players who turned their back on the PGA Tour to join the Saudi-backed rival league. Woods has since been quite vocal on why he is completely against the idea of nurturing a breakaway league while reaffirming his commitment to the PGA Tour.

LIV Golf is funded by the Public Investment Fund, the sovereign wealth fund of Saudi Arabia. The breakaway league claims it has huge ambitions and the major objective remains to improve professional golf. However, it has been widely criticised by several professional golfers and human rights groups who are opposed to Saudi Arabia's history of oppression and violence.

Woods, one of the icons of the game, seems to have assumed a leadership role in leading PGA Tour's fight against LIV Golf Series. Woods had recently attended a meeting with some of the top golfers from the PGA Tour to discuss the strategy to combat the threat of the breakaway series.

Woods jetted off from his home in Florida last week to Philadelphia where he along with Rickie Fowler met the big names of the PGA Tour, including the likes of Justin Thomas, Rory Mcilroy and others. Details of the meeting have since surfaced and Woods' efforts in saving the PGA Tour's grace in the wake of the huge battle have impressed many, who believe the American legend&nbsp;has gained the status of the Tour's virtual commissioner.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cristiano-ronaldo-brutally-ignores-jammie-carragher-ahead-of-liverpool-clash-video-goes-viral-watch-509353">Ronaldo brutally ignores Jammie Carragher ahead of Liverpool clash, video goes viral - WATCH</a>

PGA Tour commissioner&nbsp;Jay Monahan and other administrators were not part of the meeting which was reportedly a hush-hush affair. Woods met with at least 15 players during the meeting and the option of a tour within a tour with 18 not-cut tournaments featuring top 60 players with a no-cut format was discussed.

The idea of sitting at the table with LIV Golf was also reportedly debated during the meeting along with the proposal of a shake-up of the PGA Tour's financial model. There have been suggestions to rescind the Tour's non-profit model which can bring in significant investments allowing them to compete with the riches of the Saudi-backed LIV Golf League.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/legendary-sprinter-usain-bolt-files-for-trademark-to-protect-his-iconic-victory-pose-509380">Legendary sprinter Usain Bolt files for trademark to protect his iconic victory pose</a>

Tiger Woods rejected a big money&nbsp;offer from LIV Golf to support PGA Tour:

15-time major winner Woods was offered around 700-800 million dollars by the Saudi-backed LIV League but the golf&nbsp;legend rejected any advances to remain committed to the PGA Tour. Former professional golfer and the&nbsp;LIV Golf commissioner, Greg Norman had confirmed Woods was presented with an exorbitant offer but he denied it.

Despite Woods' leadership and influence, PGA Tour has already lost some of its big names as the golfers found it difficult to resist the riches of the rival Saudi-backed league. Woods, however, remains focused on ensuring those who haven't yet committed to the LIV Golf League are not in two minds about continuing with the PGA Tour.

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"I just don't understand it," golf legend Tiger Woods had said on the format of the breakaway LIV Golf Series while tearing into the players who turned their back on the PGA Tour to join the Saudi-backed rival league.

"I just don't understand it," golf legend Tiger Woods had said on the format of the breakaway LIV Golf Series while tearing into the players who turned their back on the PGA Tour to join the Saudi-backed rival league. Woods has since been quite vocal on why he is completely against the idea of nurturing a breakaway league while reaffirming his commitment to the PGA Tour. LIV Golf is funded by the Public Investment Fund, the sovereign wealth fund of Saudi Arabia. The breakaway league claims it has huge ambitions and the major objective remains to improve professional golf. However, it has been widely criticised by several professional golfers and human rights groups who are opposed to Saudi Arabia's history of oppression and violence. Woods, one of the icons of the game, seems to have assumed a leadership role in leading PGA Tour's fight against LIV Golf Series. Woods had recently attended a meeting with some of the top golfers from the PGA Tour to discuss the strategy to combat the threat of the breakaway series. Woods jetted off from his home in Florida last week to Philadelphia where he along with Rickie Fowler met the big names of the PGA Tour, including the likes of Justin Thomas, Rory Mcilroy and others. Details of the meeting have since surfaced and Woods' efforts in saving the PGA Tour's grace in the wake of the huge battle have impressed many, who believe the American legend has gained the status of the Tour's virtual commissioner. Also Read: Ronaldo brutally ignores Jammie Carragher ahead of Liverpool clash, video goes viral - WATCH PGA Tour commissioner Jay Monahan and other administrators were not part of the meeting which was reportedly a hush-hush affair. Woods met with at least 15 players during the meeting and the option of a tour within a tour with 18 not-cut tournaments featuring top 60 players with a no-cut format was discussed. The idea of sitting at the table with LIV Golf was also reportedly debated during the meeting along with the proposal of a shake-up of the PGA Tour's financial model. There have been suggestions to rescind the Tour's non-profit model which can bring in significant investments allowing them to compete with the riches of the Saudi-backed LIV Golf League. Also Read: Legendary sprinter Usain Bolt files for trademark to protect his iconic victory pose Tiger Woods rejected a big money offer from LIV Golf to support PGA Tour: 15-time major winner Woods was offered around 700-800 million dollars by the Saudi-backed LIV League but the golf legend rejected any advances to remain committed to the PGA Tour. Former professional golfer and the LIV Golf commissioner, Greg Norman had confirmed Woods was presented with an exorbitant offer but he denied it. Despite Woods' leadership and influence, PGA Tour has already lost some of its big names as the golfers found it difficult to resist the riches of the rival Saudi-backed league. Woods, however, remains focused on ensuring those who haven't yet committed to the LIV Golf League are not in two minds about continuing with the PGA Tour. ×

Tiger Woods leads PGA Tour's fightback against breakaway LIV Golf Series

Tiger Woods turned down a sum in the region of $700-800 million to join the Saudi-backed LIV Golf Invitational Series, the breakaway circuit`s CEO Greg Norman told Fox News. Norman said the offer was made before the Australian was named chief of the controversial series, which is bankrolled by Saudi Arabia`s Public Investment Fund.

"That number was out there before I became CEO. So that number has been out there, yes," two-times major winner Norman said in an interview that aired on Monday night. "Look, Tiger is a needle mover, right? So, of course you`re got to look at the best of the best. They had originally approached Tiger before I became CEO. That number is somewhere in that ($700-800 million) neighbourhood."

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LIV Golf has signed several marquee players for the series, including Phil Mickelson, Dustin Johnson and Bryson DeChambeau, but 15-times major champion Woods has stayed committed to the PGA Tour. Former world number one Woods said before last month`s British Open that he disagreed with the decision by players to join the LIV Series and compared the circuit, which features huge guaranteed contracts and a 54-hole format, to the senior Champions Tour.

"I think that what they`ve done is they`ve turned their back on what has allowed them to get to this position," he said.

Tiger Woods turned down a sum in the region of $700-800 million to join the Saudi-backed LIV Golf Invitational Series, the breakaway circuit`s CEO Greg Norman told Fox News.

Tiger Woods turned down a sum in the region of $700-800 million to join the Saudi-backed LIV Golf Invitational Series, the breakaway circuit`s CEO Greg Norman told Fox News. Norman said the offer was made before the Australian was named chief of the controversial series, which is bankrolled by Saudi Arabia`s Public Investment Fund. "That number was out there before I became CEO. So that number has been out there, yes," two-times major winner Norman said in an interview that aired on Monday night. "Look, Tiger is a needle mover, right? So, of course you`re got to look at the best of the best. They had originally approached Tiger before I became CEO. That number is somewhere in that ($700-800 million) neighbourhood." ALSO READ | India secure first-ever medal in lawn bowls in Commonwealth Games history LIV Golf has signed several marquee players for the series, including Phil Mickelson, Dustin Johnson and Bryson DeChambeau, but 15-times major champion Woods has stayed committed to the PGA Tour. Former world number one Woods said before last month`s British Open that he disagreed with the decision by players to join the LIV Series and compared the circuit, which features huge guaranteed contracts and a 54-hole format, to the senior Champions Tour. "I think that what they`ve done is they`ve turned their back on what has allowed them to get to this position," he said.

Tiger Woods rejected $700-800 million LIV offer, reveals breakaway circuit's CEO Greg Norman

Tiger Woods made a dismal start to his British Open bid as he carded two early double-bogeys on the way to a six-over-par 78 that left him 14 shots behind the leader on Thursday.

The American 15-times major champion, who has won the Open twice at St Andrews, looked out of sorts from the moment he found the water on the par-four first hole and started with a six on his card.

"It feels like I didn't really hit it that bad. I did have bad speed on the greens, yes," Woods told reporters. "But I ended up in bad spots. Or just had some weird things happen. And that's just the way it goes."

Woods, who returned to competitive golf in April at the Masters 14 months after suffering serious injuries in a car crash, missed last month's U.S. Open to prepare for the British Open.

But the 46-year-old looked pensive as he trudged around the Old Course and bogeys at the third and fourth holes took him to four over par before he failed to hole a short putt on the seventh green to rack up another six.

Things did start to improve around the turn however.

He sank a six-foot putt to birdie the ninth, grinning broadly as he acknowledged warm applause from the crowd and riding the momentum to pick up another shot at the 10th.

Woods bogeyed the 13th, though, and narrowly missed a long eagle putt at the par-five 14th, settling for his third birdie of the round.

A wild tee shot at the 16th landed in the heavy rough and cost him another shot before he safely negotiated the last two holes and raised his cap to the packed galleries around the 18th green.

The significance of the venue was not lost on Woods.

"(It was) very, very meaningful," he said, "All things considered, where I've been, I was hoping I could play this event this year. And I am. I just didn't do a very good job of it."

He also appreciated the support.

"The crowd were absolutely fantastic," he said. "So supportive. They were very respectful and very appreciative of all of us out there today, which was great."

Tied for 145th place in the 156-man field, Woods needs to make up considerable ground if he is to avoid missing the halfway cut at the scene of two of his greatest triumphs, in 2000 and 2005.

"Looks like I'm going to have to shoot 66 tomorrow to have a chance," he said. "Guys did it today. And that's my responsibility tomorrow to go ahead and do it."

Tiger Woods made a dismal start to his British Open bid as he carded two early double-bogeys on the way to a six-over-par 78 that left him 14 shots behind the leader on Thursday.

Tiger Woods made a dismal start to his British Open bid as he carded two early double-bogeys on the way to a six-over-par 78 that left him 14 shots behind the leader on Thursday. The American 15-times major champion, who has won the Open twice at St Andrews, looked out of sorts from the moment he found the water on the par-four first hole and started with a six on his card. "It feels like I didn't really hit it that bad. I did have bad speed on the greens, yes," Woods told reporters. "But I ended up in bad spots. Or just had some weird things happen. And that's just the way it goes." Woods, who returned to competitive golf in April at the Masters 14 months after suffering serious injuries in a car crash, missed last month's U.S. Open to prepare for the British Open. But the 46-year-old looked pensive as he trudged around the Old Course and bogeys at the third and fourth holes took him to four over par before he failed to hole a short putt on the seventh green to rack up another six. Things did start to improve around the turn however. He sank a six-foot putt to birdie the ninth, grinning broadly as he acknowledged warm applause from the crowd and riding the momentum to pick up another shot at the 10th. Woods bogeyed the 13th, though, and narrowly missed a long eagle putt at the par-five 14th, settling for his third birdie of the round. A wild tee shot at the 16th landed in the heavy rough and cost him another shot before he safely negotiated the last two holes and raised his cap to the packed galleries around the 18th green. The significance of the venue was not lost on Woods. "(It was) very, very meaningful," he said, "All things considered, where I've been, I was hoping I could play this event this year. And I am. I just didn't do a very good job of it." He also appreciated the support. "The crowd were absolutely fantastic," he said. "So supportive. They were very respectful and very appreciative of all of us out there today, which was great." Tied for 145th place in the 156-man field, Woods needs to make up considerable ground if he is to avoid missing the halfway cut at the scene of two of his greatest triumphs, in 2000 and 2005. "Looks like I'm going to have to shoot 66 tomorrow to have a chance," he said. "Guys did it today. And that's my responsibility tomorrow to go ahead and do it."

Tiger Woods struggles badly on St Andrews return

Tiger Woods remains a big name in the sporting fraternity. At 46, his stocks have not yet gone down despite having a very lengthy and topsy-turvy career. Recently, Woods added another feather to his illustrious hat by joining&nbsp;Michael Jordan and LeBron James in a select group of elite athletes with a net worth of at least $1 billion, business magazine Forbes reported.

Woods -- the 15-times major winner -- has made over a whopping $1.7 billion in prize money, endorsements and other ventures, as per the&nbsp;Forbes.

For the unversed, the&nbsp;46-year-old Woods is levelled with Sam Snead for the most wins on the PGA Tour with 82. However, the&nbsp;Forbes pointed out that&nbsp;his winnings from golf comprise&nbsp;less than 10% of his career earnings. Thus, the bulk of his net worth is courtesy of endorsements with some top brands such as Nike and Rolex. The veteran American professional golfer has achieved billionaire status despite not even being involved in the Saudi-backed and cash-rich LIV Golf Invitational Series, which has made heads turn recently.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/la-lakers-superstar-lebron-james-creates-history-becomes-1st-active-nba-player-worth-1-billion-484646">LA Lakers superstar LeBron James creates history, becomes 1st active NBA player worth $1 billion</a>

Earlier, the six-times NBA champion Jordan was the first athlete to reach the elite club. He was followed by&nbsp;four-times NBA champion LeBron James in early June&nbsp;after the magazine estimated the Los Angeles Lakers superstar's worth at $1 billion. He, thus, became the first&nbsp;active NBA player worth $1 billion.

Tiger Woods remains a big name in the sporting fraternity. At 46, his stocks have not yet gone down despite having a very lengthy and topsy-turvy career. Recently, Woods added another feather to his illustrious hat by joining Michael Jordan and LeBron James in a select group of elite athletes with a net worth of at least $1 billion, business magazine Forbes reported.

Tiger Woods remains a big name in the sporting fraternity. At 46, his stocks have not yet gone down despite having a very lengthy and topsy-turvy career. Recently, Woods added another feather to his illustrious hat by joining Michael Jordan and LeBron James in a select group of elite athletes with a net worth of at least $1 billion, business magazine Forbes reported. Woods -- the 15-times major winner -- has made over a whopping $1.7 billion in prize money, endorsements and other ventures, as per the Forbes. For the unversed, the 46-year-old Woods is levelled with Sam Snead for the most wins on the PGA Tour with 82. However, the Forbes pointed out that his winnings from golf comprise less than 10% of his career earnings. Thus, the bulk of his net worth is courtesy of endorsements with some top brands such as Nike and Rolex. The veteran American professional golfer has achieved billionaire status despite not even being involved in the Saudi-backed and cash-rich LIV Golf Invitational Series, which has made heads turn recently. ALSO READ | LA Lakers superstar LeBron James creates history, becomes 1st active NBA player worth $1 billion Earlier, the six-times NBA champion Jordan was the first athlete to reach the elite club. He was followed by four-times NBA champion LeBron James in early June after the magazine estimated the Los Angeles Lakers superstar's worth at $1 billion. He, thus, became the first active NBA player worth $1 billion.

Billionaires club sees new addition with Tiger Woods joining Michael Jordan, LeBron James

Tiger Woods announced on Tuesday that he will not play next week's US Open at Brookline to continue his recovery from severe leg injuries sustained in a car accident last year. The 15-time major champion withdrew from the PGA Championship last month after the third round.

"I previously informed (organizers) the USGA that I will not be competing in the @usopengolf as my body needs more time to get stronger for major championship golf," Woods tweeted, adding that he is still planning to play in the British Open at St Andrews, which starts on July 14.

"I'm excited to get back out there soon."

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
I previously informed the USGA that I will not be competing in the <a href="https://twitter.com/usopengolf?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@usopengolf</a> as my body needs more time to get stronger for major championship golf. I do hope and plan to be ready to play in Ireland at <a href="https://twitter.com/JPProAm?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@JPProAm</a> and at <a href="https://twitter.com/TheOpen?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TheOpen</a> next month. I’m excited to get back out there soon!
— Tiger Woods (@TigerWoods) <a href="https://twitter.com/TigerWoods/status/1534198107608604674?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 7, 2022</a></blockquote>
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The 46-year-old made a surprise return at the Masters in April, after needing surgery to repair his right leg following the car crash in February 2021.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/messi-coutinho-only-barca-players-who-didnt-text-me-brazilian-model-makes-startling-claims-about-pique-486025">Messi &amp; Coutinho only Barca players who didn't text me: Brazilian model makes startling claims about Pique</a>

He made the cut at Augusta National and at the PGA at Southern Hills, where he pulled out following the third-worst major round of his career.

The American is a three-time US Open champion, with the last of those titles coming in 2008 at Torrey Pines when he defied a left knee injury to win in a play-off.

Woods said he is still planning to "be ready to play in Ireland" at the JP McManus Pro-am tournament the week before the British Open.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/staggering-numbers-and-feats-behind-rafael-nadals-22nd-grand-slam-win-485688">Staggering numbers and feats behind Rafael Nadal's 22nd Grand Slam win</a>

He has lifted the Claret Jug twice at St Andrews in Scotland, in 2000 and 2005. Now sitting 881st in the world rankings, Woods previously came back after undergoing spinal fusion surgery in 2017 to win his most recent major title at the Masters three years ago.

US media reports have suggested that Woods turned down a large offer to join the Saudi-backed LIV Golf International Series, which holds its inaugural event in England this week.

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Tiger Woods announced on Tuesday that he will not play next week's US Open at Brookline to continue his recovery from severe leg injuries sustained in a car accident last year.

Tiger Woods announced on Tuesday that he will not play next week's US Open at Brookline to continue his recovery from severe leg injuries sustained in a car accident last year. The 15-time major champion withdrew from the PGA Championship last month after the third round. "I previously informed (organizers) the USGA that I will not be competing in the @usopengolf as my body needs more time to get stronger for major championship golf," Woods tweeted, adding that he is still planning to play in the British Open at St Andrews, which starts on July 14. "I'm excited to get back out there soon." I previously informed the USGA that I will not be competing in the @usopengolf as my body needs more time to get stronger for major championship golf. I do hope and plan to be ready to play in Ireland at @JPProAm and at @TheOpen next month. I’m excited to get back out there soon! — Tiger Woods (@TigerWoods) June 7, 2022 × The 46-year-old made a surprise return at the Masters in April, after needing surgery to repair his right leg following the car crash in February 2021. Also Read: Messi & Coutinho only Barca players who didn't text me: Brazilian model makes startling claims about Pique He made the cut at Augusta National and at the PGA at Southern Hills, where he pulled out following the third-worst major round of his career. The American is a three-time US Open champion, with the last of those titles coming in 2008 at Torrey Pines when he defied a left knee injury to win in a play-off. Woods said he is still planning to "be ready to play in Ireland" at the JP McManus Pro-am tournament the week before the British Open. Also Read: Staggering numbers and feats behind Rafael Nadal's 22nd Grand Slam win He has lifted the Claret Jug twice at St Andrews in Scotland, in 2000 and 2005. Now sitting 881st in the world rankings, Woods previously came back after undergoing spinal fusion surgery in 2017 to win his most recent major title at the Masters three years ago. US media reports have suggested that Woods turned down a large offer to join the Saudi-backed LIV Golf International Series, which holds its inaugural event in England this week. ×

'My body needs more time': Tiger Woods pulls out of US Open next week to continue his recovery

Tiger Woods withdrew from the PGA Championship on Saturday, after carding one of his worst rounds ever at a major tournament: a nine-over 79.

Woods, in his second start after a car crash 15 months ago nearly cost him his right leg, appeared dejected and in pain as he trudged off the 18th green at Southern Hill Country Club.

Asked if he would be back for Sunday's fourth round, Woods was non-committal. He officially announced his withdrawal about five hours after his finish.

“Tiger Woods has informed us that he is withdrawing from the 2022 PGA Championship," PGA of America President Jim Richerson said in a statement. "We admire Tiger’s valiant effort to compete here at Southern Hills and wish him the best as he continues to recover from his injuries.”

The last time Woods withdrew from a tournament was in 2019 prior to the second round of the Northern Trust.

It is the first time he has withdrawn from a major since the U.S. Open in 1995.

After narrowly making the cut at Southern Hills, a defiant Woods predicted he still had a chance to win the PGA Championship. Any remaining belief disappeared in his nightmare nine-over 79, his highest ever score at the PGA Championship and third-worst round ever at a major.

Just making the cut at Southern Hills was something to celebrate but for Woods and his thousands of fans there was precious little to cheer -- although they did every shot.

Sitting 12 off the pace at the start of play, the task facing Woods already looked impossible but the 46-year-old American has made a career of defying the odds, including his latest comeback from the accident.

He was in the ninth pair out on a cold, rainy day. The bogeys quickly piled up for him, and he hobbled away a massive 21 shots back of leader Will Zalatoris, who had yet to tee off.

The bravado Woods displayed on Friday had completely vanished as the 15-time major winner headed for treatment.

"I'm sore," Woods told a reporter. "I know that is for a fact. We'll do some work and see how it goes."

Before withdrawing Woods was anchored to the bottom of the leaderboard at 12-over 222.

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Tiger Woods withdrew from the PGA Championship on Saturday, after carding one of his worst rounds ever at a major tournament: a nine-over 79. Woods, in his second start after a car crash 15 months ago nearly cost him his right leg, appeared dejected and in pain as he trudged off the 18th green at Southern Hill Country Club.

Tiger Woods withdrew from the PGA Championship on Saturday, after carding one of his worst rounds ever at a major tournament: a nine-over 79. Woods, in his second start after a car crash 15 months ago nearly cost him his right leg, appeared dejected and in pain as he trudged off the 18th green at Southern Hill Country Club. Asked if he would be back for Sunday's fourth round, Woods was non-committal. He officially announced his withdrawal about five hours after his finish. “Tiger Woods has informed us that he is withdrawing from the 2022 PGA Championship," PGA of America President Jim Richerson said in a statement. "We admire Tiger’s valiant effort to compete here at Southern Hills and wish him the best as he continues to recover from his injuries.” The last time Woods withdrew from a tournament was in 2019 prior to the second round of the Northern Trust. It is the first time he has withdrawn from a major since the U.S. Open in 1995. After narrowly making the cut at Southern Hills, a defiant Woods predicted he still had a chance to win the PGA Championship. Any remaining belief disappeared in his nightmare nine-over 79, his highest ever score at the PGA Championship and third-worst round ever at a major. Just making the cut at Southern Hills was something to celebrate but for Woods and his thousands of fans there was precious little to cheer -- although they did every shot. Sitting 12 off the pace at the start of play, the task facing Woods already looked impossible but the 46-year-old American has made a career of defying the odds, including his latest comeback from the accident. He was in the ninth pair out on a cold, rainy day. The bogeys quickly piled up for him, and he hobbled away a massive 21 shots back of leader Will Zalatoris, who had yet to tee off. The bravado Woods displayed on Friday had completely vanished as the 15-time major winner headed for treatment. "I'm sore," Woods told a reporter. "I know that is for a fact. We'll do some work and see how it goes." Before withdrawing Woods was anchored to the bottom of the leaderboard at 12-over 222. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

PGA Championship: Tiger Woods withdraws after third round

World number one Scottie Scheffler takes the spotlight and a three-shot lead into the Masters final round on Sunday as Tiger Woods continues his comeback far away from the leaderboard.

The year's first major looks poised for a Green Jacket showdown between the planet's two hottest golfers in Scheffler, winner of three of his last five PGA Tour starts and Australian Cameron Smith, winner of golf`s unofficial fifth major the Players Championship in March.

Scheffler had been poised to run away with the title when he powered to a six-shot lead in Saturday's third round but wobbled to the finish with three bogeys to see his advantage halved setting up what could be an Augusta National thriller.

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The final pair of Scheffler and Smith, runner-up to Dustin Johnson at the 2020 Masters, are scheduled off at 240pm ET (1840 GMT).

If anyone else expects to join the fray they will need to mount an early charge.

South Korea's Im Sung-jae will start five off the pace with playing partner Irishman Shane Lowry, the 2019 British Open champion, seven back.

South Africa's Charl Schwartzel, the 2011 Masters champion, is also seven adrift with his partner Justin Thomas eight back.

Until Sunday the Masters spotlight had seldom strayed from Woods, who is playing his first event since a car crash 14 months ago nearly cost him his right leg.

The 46-year-old on Tuesday confirmed he would play the Masters and that he believed he could win a record-equalling sixth Green Jacket.

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The 15-times major winner's comeback captivated the golfing world as he stayed in contention through the opening two rounds but any hope of victory ended on Saturday with a six-over 78, Woods'&nbsp;worst-ever score at Augusta National.

He and his playing partner Jon Rahm were among the early starters on Sunday going off at 1050am ET (1450 GMT) almost four hours before Scheffler and Smith.

But Woods is assured of a roaring ovation from the adoring gallery for a brave effort when he walks off the 18th green.

World number one Scottie Scheffler takes the spotlight and a three-shot lead into the Masters final round on Sunday as Tiger Woods continues his comeback far away from the leaderboard.

World number one Scottie Scheffler takes the spotlight and a three-shot lead into the Masters final round on Sunday as Tiger Woods continues his comeback far away from the leaderboard. The year's first major looks poised for a Green Jacket showdown between the planet's two hottest golfers in Scheffler, winner of three of his last five PGA Tour starts and Australian Cameron Smith, winner of golf`s unofficial fifth major the Players Championship in March. Scheffler had been poised to run away with the title when he powered to a six-shot lead in Saturday's third round but wobbled to the finish with three bogeys to see his advantage halved setting up what could be an Augusta National thriller. ALSO READ: Just going play my game: Tiger Woods 'proud' of himself after battling to stay in Masters hunt The final pair of Scheffler and Smith, runner-up to Dustin Johnson at the 2020 Masters, are scheduled off at 240pm ET (1840 GMT). If anyone else expects to join the fray they will need to mount an early charge. South Korea's Im Sung-jae will start five off the pace with playing partner Irishman Shane Lowry, the 2019 British Open champion, seven back. South Africa's Charl Schwartzel, the 2011 Masters champion, is also seven adrift with his partner Justin Thomas eight back. Until Sunday the Masters spotlight had seldom strayed from Woods, who is playing his first event since a car crash 14 months ago nearly cost him his right leg. The 46-year-old on Tuesday confirmed he would play the Masters and that he believed he could win a record-equalling sixth Green Jacket. ALSO READ: Tiger Woods begins highly-anticipated return with opening par at Masters The 15-times major winner's comeback captivated the golfing world as he stayed in contention through the opening two rounds but any hope of victory ended on Saturday with a six-over 78, Woods' worst-ever score at Augusta National. He and his playing partner Jon Rahm were among the early starters on Sunday going off at 1050am ET (1450 GMT) almost four hours before Scheffler and Smith. But Woods is assured of a roaring ovation from the adoring gallery for a brave effort when he walks off the 18th green.

USA's Scottie Scheffler chases Masters win, Tiger Woods shoots career-worst 78

In-form American and current world No. 1, Scottie Scheffler carded a final round 71 at the famed Augusta National to earn his first major title and fourth win on the PGA Tour here on Sunday. Scheffler, who went 10-under for the tournament, finishing three strokes ahead of Northern Ireland`s former world No. 1 Rory McIlroy, became the first player to win four times in a six-start stretch on the PGA Tour since Australian golfer Jason Day in 2015. 
 
Scheffler held off the chasing pack to further cement his position as No. 1 on the FedEx Cup standings and Official World Golf Ranking. The American also became the sixth player to win in his first PGA Tour start as world No. 1 and sixth world No. 1 to win the Masters as he aggregated 10-under 278 for the tournament. 
 
Tiger Woods finished 47th in his first start since the 2020 Masters and some 14 months after a horrific car mishap, which led to serious leg injuries. Among Asians, South Korea`s Sungjae Im settled for a second top-10 finish in three starts at the Masters. A cold putter proved to be a bane for the 24-year-old in his chase for major glory as he signed for a disappointing 3-over 75, finishing nine back of Scheffler.

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Defending champion Hideki Matsuyama closed with a 72 to finish tied-14th, which was a commendable effort considering he was battling a back injury for a month leading up to the Masters. 
 
After missing birdie attempts on his first three holes, Im dropped the first of six bogeys at the par 3 fourth hole, and it was subsequently uphill for the two-time PGA Tour winner, who was runner-up in his Masters debut in 2020. 
 
"It was a little bit disappointing. I missed a lot of putts," rued Im, who averaged 1.83 putts per green in regulation, his highest of the week. "Overall, I think top-10 is good, and I am happy especially when I didn`t play well." 
 
The top-10 guaranteed a quick return to the year`s first major which Im intends to keep knocking on the door as he feels Augusta National is suited to his precision game. "It is good to secure an invitation early," said Im, who was the first-round leader following a 67. 
 
"I will keep the same strategy... play for the cut, and then try to compete for a win. The Masters was my dream since I was a kid and watched this on TV. I always hoped to play at Augusta National and compete with the greatest golfers, and competing for the trophy. This is huge." 
 
Im leaves Augusta National with every belief he has garnered greater knowledge and understanding of the nuances at the challenging layout. 
 
"Accuracy is more important than power here. Finding the right side of the green is key. It is very important to place the ball where you can make par. If not, you can easily three putt," he said. 
 
"I was top of the leaderboard and was able to compete for a win. It was also the first time I played in front of patrons and I enjoyed the atmosphere and roars. It makes the tournament enjoyable and I will never forget this experience." 
 
Matsuyama, who made history as Asia`s first Masters winner 12 months ago, traded five birdies against as many bogeys as he held his head high to finish inside the top-15. He later presented the Green Jacket to Scheffler, who defeated Rory McIlroy of Northern Ireland by three strokes with his 10-under 278 aggregate. 
 
"I`m happy I was able to play all four days," said Japan`s first male major champion. "I struggled to play the type of golf that I was envisioning. I wish I was able to contend a little more." 
 
Leaderboard 
 
1. Scottie Scheffler 69-67-71-71-278 (-10); 
 
2. Rory McIlroy 73-73-71-64-281 (-7); 
 
3. Shane Lowry 73-68-73-69-283 (-5); 
 
4. Cameron Smith 68-74-68-73-283 (-5); 
 
5. Collin Morikawa 73-70-74-67-284 (-4).

In-form American and current world No. 1, Scottie Scheffler carded a final round 71 at the famed Augusta National to earn his first major title and fourth win on the PGA Tour here on Sunday.

In-form American and current world No. 1, Scottie Scheffler carded a final round 71 at the famed Augusta National to earn his first major title and fourth win on the PGA Tour here on Sunday. Scheffler, who went 10-under for the tournament, finishing three strokes ahead of Northern Ireland`s former world No. 1 Rory McIlroy, became the first player to win four times in a six-start stretch on the PGA Tour since Australian golfer Jason Day in 2015. Scheffler held off the chasing pack to further cement his position as No. 1 on the FedEx Cup standings and Official World Golf Ranking. The American also became the sixth player to win in his first PGA Tour start as world No. 1 and sixth world No. 1 to win the Masters as he aggregated 10-under 278 for the tournament. Tiger Woods finished 47th in his first start since the 2020 Masters and some 14 months after a horrific car mishap, which led to serious leg injuries. Among Asians, South Korea`s Sungjae Im settled for a second top-10 finish in three starts at the Masters. A cold putter proved to be a bane for the 24-year-old in his chase for major glory as he signed for a disappointing 3-over 75, finishing nine back of Scheffler. ALSO READ | Just going play my game: Tiger Woods 'proud' of himself after battling to stay in Masters hunt Defending champion Hideki Matsuyama closed with a 72 to finish tied-14th, which was a commendable effort considering he was battling a back injury for a month leading up to the Masters. After missing birdie attempts on his first three holes, Im dropped the first of six bogeys at the par 3 fourth hole, and it was subsequently uphill for the two-time PGA Tour winner, who was runner-up in his Masters debut in 2020. "It was a little bit disappointing. I missed a lot of putts," rued Im, who averaged 1.83 putts per green in regulation, his highest of the week. "Overall, I think top-10 is good, and I am happy especially when I didn`t play well." The top-10 guaranteed a quick return to the year`s first major which Im intends to keep knocking on the door as he feels Augusta National is suited to his precision game. "It is good to secure an invitation early," said Im, who was the first-round leader following a 67. "I will keep the same strategy... play for the cut, and then try to compete for a win. The Masters was my dream since I was a kid and watched this on TV. I always hoped to play at Augusta National and compete with the greatest golfers, and competing for the trophy. This is huge." Im leaves Augusta National with every belief he has garnered greater knowledge and understanding of the nuances at the challenging layout. "Accuracy is more important than power here. Finding the right side of the green is key. It is very important to place the ball where you can make par. If not, you can easily three putt," he said. "I was top of the leaderboard and was able to compete for a win. It was also the first time I played in front of patrons and I enjoyed the atmosphere and roars. It makes the tournament enjoyable and I will never forget this experience." Matsuyama, who made history as Asia`s first Masters winner 12 months ago, traded five birdies against as many bogeys as he held his head high to finish inside the top-15. He later presented the Green Jacket to Scheffler, who defeated Rory McIlroy of Northern Ireland by three strokes with his 10-under 278 aggregate. "I`m happy I was able to play all four days," said Japan`s first male major champion. "I struggled to play the type of golf that I was envisioning. I wish I was able to contend a little more." Leaderboard 1. Scottie Scheffler 69-67-71-71-278 (-10); 2. Rory McIlroy 73-73-71-64-281 (-7); 3. Shane Lowry 73-68-73-69-283 (-5); 4. Cameron Smith 68-74-68-73-283 (-5); 5. Collin Morikawa 73-70-74-67-284 (-4).

Masters 2022: In-form American and World No. 1 Scottie Scheffler emerges champion at Augusta

A battling Tiger Woods clawed his way out of early trouble to stay in the Masters hunt, carding a second round two-over 74 on a Friday as the wind gave him more problems than the right leg that he nearly lost in a career-threatening car crash.

World number one Scottie Scheffler was among the few to tame the challenging conditions, posting a 67 to seize control of the leaderboard and charging five clear of the field on eight-under 136.

With winds blowing across Augusta National, golfers were in full survival mode and none more so than Woods who took bogeys on four of his five opening holes, threatening to derail the comeback that has captivated golf fans around the world.

But the 46-year-old's famous fight surfaced in time to put him one-over heading into Saturday's third round and nine back of front-running Scheffler.

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"I got back in the ball game," said Woods. "I'm four shots back at second. That's the thing."

"But Scottie is running away with it right now."

"Tomorrow is going to be tough. It's going to be windy. It's going to be cool."

"It's going to be the Masters that I think the Masters Committee has been looking forward to for a number of years."

"We haven't had it like this. It's going to be exciting, and it's going to be fun for all of us."

With three wins in his last five PGA Tour starts, Scheffler showed why he is the hottest golfer on the planet taking a bogey on his first hole then going on to post the day's best round.

The 25-year-old American, even with a commanding five shot lead, cannot afford to get complacent being chased by trio of major winners including South Africa's Charl Schwartzel (69) the 2011 winner at Augusta National, Irishman Shane Lowry (68) the 2019 British Open winner, and defending Masters champion Hideki Matsuyama of Japan (69).

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Also five back is South Korea's Im Sung-jae (74), the first round overnight leader.

"There's still 50 guys in the field, something like that, I'm sure, and I can't worry about what those guys are doing," said Scheffler. "I'm just going to go out and play my game and just keep doing what I'm doing.

"Still quite a long way to go."

"It's nice to build up a little bit of a lead, but I'm not really going to be thinking about it tonight or anything."

As spectacular a round as Scheffler had it still was not enough to pry the spotlight away from Woods.

Playing his first competitive event in nearly 14 months Woods set the golf world alight on Thursday when he posted a one-under 71 to crank up expectations.

But the 46-year-old looked headed for an early exit when he stumbled to bogeys on four of his five opening holes, including three straight from the third.

Three-over walking onto the sixth tee and sliding dangerously close to the projected four-over cut line, Woods regrouped with nervy pars on six and seven before finally collecting his first birdie of the day at the eighth.

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The five-times Masters champion got his back nine off to a much brighter start than his outward nine, picking up a birdie at the 10th, then gave it right back at the infamous Amen Corner with bogeys at 11 and 12.

But as he has he has done so many times before on the Augusta back nine Woods would not surrender, hitting back with birdies at 13 and 14 before closing with four consecutive pars.

"Tomorrow is going to be an important day with as cool and as tough as they're predicting," said Woods. "It's going to be quick, and I need to go out there and put myself there.

"If you're within five or six on that back nine going into Sunday, you've got a chance. So I just need to get there."

A battling Tiger Woods clawed his way out of early trouble to stay in the Masters hunt, carding a second round two-over 74 on a Friday as the wind gave him more problems than the right leg that he nearly lost in a career-threatening car crash.

A battling Tiger Woods clawed his way out of early trouble to stay in the Masters hunt, carding a second round two-over 74 on a Friday as the wind gave him more problems than the right leg that he nearly lost in a career-threatening car crash. World number one Scottie Scheffler was among the few to tame the challenging conditions, posting a 67 to seize control of the leaderboard and charging five clear of the field on eight-under 136. With winds blowing across Augusta National, golfers were in full survival mode and none more so than Woods who took bogeys on four of his five opening holes, threatening to derail the comeback that has captivated golf fans around the world. But the 46-year-old's famous fight surfaced in time to put him one-over heading into Saturday's third round and nine back of front-running Scheffler. ALSO READ: Tiger Woods begins highly-anticipated return with opening par at Masters "I got back in the ball game," said Woods. "I'm four shots back at second. That's the thing." "But Scottie is running away with it right now." "Tomorrow is going to be tough. It's going to be windy. It's going to be cool." "It's going to be the Masters that I think the Masters Committee has been looking forward to for a number of years." "We haven't had it like this. It's going to be exciting, and it's going to be fun for all of us." With three wins in his last five PGA Tour starts, Scheffler showed why he is the hottest golfer on the planet taking a bogey on his first hole then going on to post the day's best round. The 25-year-old American, even with a commanding five shot lead, cannot afford to get complacent being chased by trio of major winners including South Africa's Charl Schwartzel (69) the 2011 winner at Augusta National, Irishman Shane Lowry (68) the 2019 British Open winner, and defending Masters champion Hideki Matsuyama of Japan (69). ALSO READ: 'I've got to play Wimbledon first': Serena Williams teases comeback after a year on the sidelines Also five back is South Korea's Im Sung-jae (74), the first round overnight leader. "There's still 50 guys in the field, something like that, I'm sure, and I can't worry about what those guys are doing," said Scheffler. "I'm just going to go out and play my game and just keep doing what I'm doing. "Still quite a long way to go." "It's nice to build up a little bit of a lead, but I'm not really going to be thinking about it tonight or anything." As spectacular a round as Scheffler had it still was not enough to pry the spotlight away from Woods. Playing his first competitive event in nearly 14 months Woods set the golf world alight on Thursday when he posted a one-under 71 to crank up expectations. But the 46-year-old looked headed for an early exit when he stumbled to bogeys on four of his five opening holes, including three straight from the third. Three-over walking onto the sixth tee and sliding dangerously close to the projected four-over cut line, Woods regrouped with nervy pars on six and seven before finally collecting his first birdie of the day at the eighth. ALSO READ: FIFA quashes rumours of changing length of matches for World Cup Qatar 2022 The five-times Masters champion got his back nine off to a much brighter start than his outward nine, picking up a birdie at the 10th, then gave it right back at the infamous Amen Corner with bogeys at 11 and 12. But as he has he has done so many times before on the Augusta back nine Woods would not surrender, hitting back with birdies at 13 and 14 before closing with four consecutive pars. "Tomorrow is going to be an important day with as cool and as tough as they're predicting," said Woods. "It's going to be quick, and I need to go out there and put myself there. "If you're within five or six on that back nine going into Sunday, you've got a chance. So I just need to get there."

Just going play my game: Tiger Woods 'proud' of himself after battling to stay in Masters hunt

Tiger Woods began his highly-anticipated return to competition with a par on his first hole at the Masters on Thursday in front of a throng of patrons thrilled to see the five-time champion back.

Woods, wearing a pink shirt and black pants on his return to the Masters following a February 2021 car crash, was greeted at the par-four 445-yard first hole to a raucous reception from spectators who arrived at Augusta National in the early-morning hours to get a front-row seat.

In his first competitive round of golf in 508 days, Woods sent his opening tee just short of the fairway bunker, watched his approach trickle off the front of the green and then chipped to 10 feet before saving par.

Woods'&nbsp;accident, which nearly resulted in doctors amputating his right leg, cast serious doubt on his professional golfing future but the 15-times major champion said earlier this week that he feels like he can still compete at the highest level.

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If Woods, 46, can pull off the unthinkable with a win this week he would become the oldest Masters champion by three weeks over 18-times major winner Jack Nicklaus, who collected his record sixth Green Jacket in 1986.

Defending champion Hideki Matsuyama, who last year became the first Japanese man to win a major championship, was playing in the group behind Woods along with world number seven Justin Thomas and James Piot, who is one of six amateurs in the field.

Rory McIlroy, who needs a win this week to complete the career Grand Slam, is due to go out in the day's final group at 2:33 p.m. ET (1833 GMT) while former champions Jordan Spieth and Dustin Johnson and reigning U.S. Open champion Jon Rahm were also among the late starters.

The start to the year's first major was delayed 30 minutes due to early-morning thunderstorms but the added wait could not dampen the excitement around Augusta National, which had its usual full house after two years of COVID-19 restrictions.

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Festivities began at 8:15 a.m. ET when honorary starters Nicklaus, Gary Player and Tom Watson, who have a combined 35 major titles between them, got the year's first major underway with their ceremonial tee shots.

Watson, making his first appearance as a Masters honorary starter, addressed the crowd as he approached the first tee where he spoke about what it meant to be part of a tradition that includes Arnold Palmer, Gene Sarazen and Byron Nelson.

"May I say something," the 72-year-old Watson said. "I would like to say how honoured I am to be with Gary and Jack.

"I watched this ceremony many times in the past ... to be a part of this thing I am truly humbled."

Tiger Woods began his highly-anticipated return to competition with a par on his first hole at the Masters on Thursday in front of a throng of patrons thrilled to see the five-time champion back.

Tiger Woods began his highly-anticipated return to competition with a par on his first hole at the Masters on Thursday in front of a throng of patrons thrilled to see the five-time champion back. Woods, wearing a pink shirt and black pants on his return to the Masters following a February 2021 car crash, was greeted at the par-four 445-yard first hole to a raucous reception from spectators who arrived at Augusta National in the early-morning hours to get a front-row seat. In his first competitive round of golf in 508 days, Woods sent his opening tee just short of the fairway bunker, watched his approach trickle off the front of the green and then chipped to 10 feet before saving par. Woods' accident, which nearly resulted in doctors amputating his right leg, cast serious doubt on his professional golfing future but the 15-times major champion said earlier this week that he feels like he can still compete at the highest level. ALSO READ: Tiger Woods put finishing touches to his preparations ahead of this week's Masters If Woods, 46, can pull off the unthinkable with a win this week he would become the oldest Masters champion by three weeks over 18-times major winner Jack Nicklaus, who collected his record sixth Green Jacket in 1986. Defending champion Hideki Matsuyama, who last year became the first Japanese man to win a major championship, was playing in the group behind Woods along with world number seven Justin Thomas and James Piot, who is one of six amateurs in the field. Rory McIlroy, who needs a win this week to complete the career Grand Slam, is due to go out in the day's final group at 2:33 p.m. ET (1833 GMT) while former champions Jordan Spieth and Dustin Johnson and reigning U.S. Open champion Jon Rahm were also among the late starters. The start to the year's first major was delayed 30 minutes due to early-morning thunderstorms but the added wait could not dampen the excitement around Augusta National, which had its usual full house after two years of COVID-19 restrictions. ALSO READ: Patrick Mouratoglou to coach former world no 1 Simona Halep full-time Festivities began at 8:15 a.m. ET when honorary starters Nicklaus, Gary Player and Tom Watson, who have a combined 35 major titles between them, got the year's first major underway with their ceremonial tee shots. Watson, making his first appearance as a Masters honorary starter, addressed the crowd as he approached the first tee where he spoke about what it meant to be part of a tradition that includes Arnold Palmer, Gene Sarazen and Byron Nelson. "May I say something," the 72-year-old Watson said. "I would like to say how honoured I am to be with Gary and Jack. "I watched this ceremony many times in the past ... to be a part of this thing I am truly humbled."

Tiger Woods begins highly-anticipated return with opening par at Masters

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