Tiger Woods is back. … well, kind of.
The Jupiter Island resident made his first public appearance since his accident and DUI arrest on March 27, introducing PGA Tour CEO Brian Rolapp June 23 ahead of his news conference at the TPC River Highlands, the site of this week’s Travelers Championship, to update changes that will be coming to the Tour schedule in 2028.
Woods, 50, has been back and forth from Switzerland since his accident, which occured near his home, reportedly seeking comprehensive inpatient treatment after being charged with suspicion of driving under the influence.
While Woods spoke about the process and work that has gone into the schedule before Rolapp spoke, he did not address his personal situation and was not available for questions. He spoke for about 75 seconds.
“The past eight months, the future competitions committee has spent a lot of time on a very important fundamental question: How can we build the strongest possible version of the PGA Tour?” Woods said.
“This work was never about any one player or person. It was about bringing together different perspectives, having honest hard conversations and boldly what is best for the game that we all love.
“It has been a privilege to work with all the committee members and especially my fellow player directors. I’m proud of the work we’ve done and I’m grateful to everyone who’s contributed along the way.
“We have to look forward and beyond today and over the horizon to set up the PGA Tour and our sport for the future generations of players and fans.”
At that point Woods introduced Rolapp, who welcomed back his troubled superstar.
“I think I speak for all of us … glad to see you back,” Rolapp said to Woods.
Rolapp later was asked about Tiger’s role in the changes.
“Having Tiger involved was a tremendous asset and a privilege,” Rolapp said. “His insight into the game as a player but also being around it his whole life, the respect he has from fans, from his fellow members, from partners is invaluable.
“And so his leadership has been tremendous. We were fortunate to have him.”
Tom D’Angelo is a senior sports columnist and reporter for The Palm Beach Post. He can be reached at tdangelo@pbpost.com.
This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: Tiger Woods makes first PGA Tour appearance since DUI arrest
Reporting by Tom D’Angelo, Palm Beach Post / Palm Beach Post
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By Tom D'Angelo, Palm Beach Post | USA TODAY Network
