Cloud finally lifting over troubled Tiger’s career

THE skies were the same shade of deep pastel blue, the surrounds were again one of Australia’s finest sandbelt courses and the galleries swelled just as they had done exactly 12 months.

But all it took was the first glimpse of Tiger Woods to remind us that all had changed... changed utterly in the past year.

The most recognisable sportsman in the world is back where it all began to unravel, in Melbourne to defend his Australian Masters crown. But when the golden jacket was draped over his broad shoulders in November 2009, Woods’ trademark winning smile was that of a seemingly happily married man.