Tiger Woods said Friday he is taking an indefinite leave from golf to work on saving his marriage, using the word "infidelity" for the first time in a statement posted on his Web site.
"After much soul searching, I have decided to take an indefinite break from professional golf," Woods said. "I need to focus my attention on being a better husband, father, and person."
The announcement came two weeks after a car accident that set in motion a shocking downfall for the world's No. 1 player, which has included sordid allegations of numerous extramarital affairs. One woman even shared a voicemail she said Woods left her two nights before his Nov. 27 accident.
Woods has not been seen in public since the accident.
"I am deeply aware of the disappointment and hurt that my infidelity has caused to so many people, most of all my wife and children," Woods said. "I want to say again to everyone that I am profoundly sorry and that I ask forgiveness. It may not be possible to repair the damage I've done, but I want to do my best to try."
How long Woods will stay away from golf was unclear.
PGA Tour commissioner Tim Finchem said "we look forward to Tiger's return to the PGA Tour when he determines the time is right for him."
"We fully support Tiger's decision to step away from competitive golf to focus on his family," Finchem said Friday in a statement. "His priorities are where they need to be, and we will continue to respect and honor his family's request for privacy."
A year ago, Woods was out of golf for eight months while recovering from reconstructive knee surgery, and television ratings dropped 50 percent during his absence.
"I would like to ask everyone, including my fans, the good people at my foundation, business partners, the PGA Tour, and my fellow competitors, for their understanding," the statement says. "What's most important now is that my family has the time, privacy, and safe haven we will need for personal healing."
Woods and his wife, Elin, have been married five years and have a 2-year-old daughter and 10-month-old son.
"Again, I ask for privacy for my family and I am especially grateful for all those who have offered compassion and concern during this difficult period."
Source: ESPN
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