Scandal-hit Woods takes 'indefinite' break from golf

Scandal-hit Tiger Woods has decided to take an “indefinite break” from golf as he apologised for his “infidelity”.

Posting a message on his website, the champion golfer said: “After much soul searching, I have decided to take an indefinite break from professional golf.”

He added: “I am deeply aware of the disappointment and hurt that my infidelity has caused to so many people, most of all my wife and children. I want to say again to everyone that I am profoundly sorry and that I ask forgiveness.”

The 33-year-old, who is married to Swedish former model Elin Nordegren, has been swamped by a series of affair allegations since crashing his car in mysterious circumstances on November 27.

Woods continued: "It may not be possible to repair the damage I've done, but I want to do my best to try.

“I would like to ask everyone, including my fans, the good people at my foundation, business partners, the PGA Tour, and my fellow competitors, for their understanding.

“What’s most important now is that my family has the time, privacy, and safe haven we will need for personal healing.

“I need to focus my attention on being a better husband, father, and person.

“Again, I ask for privacy for my family and I am especially grateful for all those who have offered compassion and concern during this difficult period.”

The number of women who have come forward with claims of a sexual involvement with the billionaire sportsman stands in double figures.

The allegations have caused headlines around the world and affected Woods’ previously wholesome family image.

Woods had previously not commented on the affair allegations or been seen in public since his car crash.

In a statement released last week he referred to “personal sins” and “transgressions” and apologised for letting his family down.

The world number one golfer was last due to play golf on Tuesday December 1 at the Chevron World Challenge title, but cancelled in the wake of his car crash.

He is the winner of 14 major golf events, with the first major of next year being the US Masters which starts on April 8.

A statement from PGA Tour commissioner Tim Finchem in response to Woods’ announcement read: “We fully support Tiger’s decision to step away from competitive golf to focus on his family.

“His priorities are where they need to be, and we will continue to respect and honor his family’s request for privacy.

“We look forward to Tiger’s return to the PGA Tour when he determines the time is right for him.”

Woods crashed his car in the early hours of November 27, leaving him needing hospital treatment and immediately raising questions over the circumstances leading up to the accident.

It has been speculated that reports of an affair with New York socialite Rachel Uchitel led to a confrontation with his wife shortly before he got into his SUV that morning.

Earlier this week, Woods’ mother-in-law collapsed at his Florida mansion and spent half a day in hospital.

Barbro Holmberg, mother of Elin, had arrived in the US from her native Sweden to be with her daughter.