BREAKING NEWS: Tiger Woods To Play In Masters
March 16 2010, Published 12:52 p.m. ET
Tiger Woods officially announced Tuesday that he is returning to golf at the Masters, as RadarOnline.com was first to report weeks ago.
“The Masters is where I won my first major, and I view this tournament with great respect. After a long and necessary time away from the game, I feel like I'm ready to start my season at Augusta,” Woods said in a statement posted on his website.
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"The major championships have always been a special focus in my career and, as a professional, I think Augusta is where I need to be, even though it's been awhile since I last played.
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"I have undergone almost two months of inpatient therapy, and I am continuing my treatment. Although I'm returning to competition, I still have a lot of work to do in my personal life.
"When I finally got into a position to think about competitive golf again, it became apparent to me that the Masters would be the earliest I could play. I called both Joe Lewis and Arnold Palmer and expressed my regrets for not attending the Tavistock Cup and the Arnold Palmer Invitational. I again want to thank them both for their support and their understanding. Those are fantastic tournaments, and I look forward to competing in them again.
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"I would also like to thank the Augusta National members and staff for their support. I have deep appreciation for everything that they do to create a wonderful event for the benefit of the game."
Woods last played in a golf tournament in Australia on November 15, 2009, two weeks before his marital problems went public.
Masters officials could restrict media access to reporters who have followed the golf ace since his infidelities were exposed.
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The Masters begins on April 8.