Players express support for Woods

Tiger Woods' apology for "transgressions" in his private life was greeted with a mixture of shock and regret by his fellow professionals at the Chevron World Challenge event he was meant to be hosting today.

World number one Woods yesterday issued his apology on his official website for "personal sins and failings" as the fall-out from his car crash on Friday continued.

The 33-year-old had crashed into a fire hydrant and tree outside his home in Florida in the early hours of the morning, suffering facial lacerations which required hospital treatment.

The one-car accident led to feverish speculation about the 14-time Major winner's personal life, leading father-of-two Woods to respond with a statement.

It read: "I have let my family down and I regret those transgressions with all of my heart.

"I have not been true to my values and the behaviour my family deserves. I am not without faults and I am far short of perfect.

"I am dealing with my behaviour and personal failings behind closed doors with my family. Those feelings should be shared by us alone."

On Monday, Woods withdrew from the Chevron World Challenge tournament which annually benefits his charitable foundation, citing injuries sustained in the accident - for which he was issued with a police citation for careless driving.

As the 18-man field prepared to tee off for today's first round, world number three Steve Stricker, Woods' regular playing partner during October's US victory in the Presidents Cup, said: "It's been hard.

"It was a shock to see that, first of all, he was in a car accident, and then all the developments after that.

"It's taken a little bit of the life out of me being here because usually I'm paired with him here in this event and very much look forward to playing with him the first round, and him not being here, I'm not going to be able to do that.

"I think his image is going to take a little bit of a shot. I'd like to see him come on TV and just pour it out a little bit and show what's happened a little bit.

"I don't know if that'll ever happen but people forget, and if he just does the right things from here on, people will forgive him and move on and forget hopefully.

"I don't think there's any question he will bounce back. It's going to be hard on him for a while but I expect him to come back and be the old Tiger."

Former Masters champion Zach Johnson offered Woods forgiveness and support.

He said: "I think the Woods family just need their time together, allow them to get through it.

"My belief is it's a time for forgiveness and a time for putting things aside and trying to become better people.

"He's a friend of mine, I forgive him, I hope they get through it, and if I can be of any support, I'm here."