Tiger Woods set to be honoured by fellow golf champion Rory McIlroy
Amid the sport’s icons latest scandal after his DUI arrest, Tiger Woods is set to be honoured by his fellow golf champion Rory McIlroy.
Tiger Woods is set to be honoured by his fellow golf champion Rory McIlroy.
Following the 50-year-old golfing icon’s DUI arrest, Rory, 36, said he plans to pay tribute to the troubled sports legend at the Masters champions dinner, and also pay tribute to Phil Mickelson, who is set to be absent from the event just like Tiger.
Rory, who secured victory at The Masters, is set to host the traditional champions dinner on 7 April at Augusta National. Speaking to Golf Channel, Rory said he intends to recognise Tiger and Phil despite their absences – while Tiger is currently seeking treatment following his arrest in Florida, and while Phil has withdrawn from the tournament due to a family health matter.
The annual dinner, hosted by the reigning champion, allows the winner to select the menu and acknowledge fellow competitors.
Rory said: “Unfortunately, there will be a couple of guys that won't be in that room, which is a shame, but I want to make sure that they're acknowledged as well.
“They've been two of the greatest champions that the Masters has ever seen.
“But it's going to be a really cool night. I can't wait. I hope everyone enjoys the dinner and enjoys everything that I've selected.”
Tiger was arrested on 27 March after deputies alleged they found two hydrocodone tablets in his possession following a car crash.
According to a probable cause affidavit reported by People, officers observed Tiger had “bloodshot and glassy” eyes and “extremely dilated” pupils.
In body camera footage also reported by People, Tiger said at the scene he was “hoping to” play in the Masters and that it “depends on y’all”.
Tiger has recently returned to competitive golf after a period away from the sport, including time spent recovering from back surgery and an Achilles injury sustained prior to last year’s tournament.
His participation in the Masters had been uncertain prior to the incident.
Phil, 55, announced his withdrawal from the tournament in a statement shared on social media.
He said: “Unfortunately, I will not play in the Masters Tournament next week and will be out for an extended period of time as my family continues to navigate a personal health matter.
“I have great respect for Augusta National Golf Club and it is definitely the most special week of the year.”
