As the whole world now knows, golfer Tiger Woods made a carefully controlled public appearance on Feb.19 to issue a public apology for his infidelity. The event was held to start the process of rebuilding his brand and business empire.
He said he was sorry for "irresponsible and selfish behavior" in a 13 minute statement before a small group that did not include his wife Elin. "I was unfaithful. I had affairs. I cheated," Woods said. "What I did was not acceptable."
He referred to the women that he was involved with as "temptations" and offered no apologies to them. He spoke in a monotone most of the time, raising his voice only when he denied that his wife had ever hit him and asked the paparazzi to leave his family alone. His next steps will be a return to therapy and treatment for sex addiction.
Did you watch this presentation or discuss it with others? What were your thoughts about it? Is this a private matter between a husband and wife that's been blown way out of proportion? Is this a public figure who influences millions of young people and needs to make public amends? If this had been your husband, what would you have done?
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It's an interesting question.
What I saw in his statement was reflective of someone who is working a twelve-step program. He has to admit what he's done to those he's affected, he has to atone for his mistakes and he has to change the way he's living. I have no doubt that it was sincere - he's been in rehab for 45 days and was returning the day after that. But the ultimate result won't have anything to do with this statement. The ultimate result will have to do with how he mends the relationships with his family, friends, business associates and the kids who are part of his educational programs. The ultimate result will come over time, not in a press conference.
And I too was astonished that it got so much play. It's a big story, but the lead story on a national broadcast? Come on.
February 22, 2010 - 10:36amThis Comment
Hi Pat,
I have no sympathy for Tiger Woods and I have lost a lot of respect for him. Yes, this is a private matter but as soon as you become a celebrity, you chose this sort of lifestyle. I hope he finds help or just remains living that lifestyle without bringing another marriage and kids into it. The kids are the ones that end up suffering in the end as well as thinking that this sort of behavior is acceptable.
Win large and live large. Tiger Woods has lost what matters most, family.
February 20, 2010 - 11:03amThis Comment
I think this is a private matter where the media have got their pound of flesh from another celeb. We don't know what went on behind closed doors and therefore shouldn't judge. He is a brilliant sports person who many look up to. His extra marital affairs will not affect kids on how they view him as a golfer only as a married man.
February 20, 2010 - 2:06amI don't think he needed to make a public apology, he did nothing wrong to anyone except himself and his family. I hope the media leave him in peace.
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