Here we learn that Accenture -- whose full-wall Tiger ads decorate every airport concourse I enter in this country and abroad -- has removed his photo from their web page, on which it appeared as recently as yesterday. No comment from either camp.
The wagons circle . . .
From the PGA TOUR:
"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."
From his agent, Mark Steinberg:
"As his agent and friend, I stand fully behind Tiger and support his decision wholeheartedly. What Tiger and his family need now is time away and private space so that they can recover from all that’s happened and try to restore some well-being to their lives.
The entirety of someone’s life is more important than just a professional career. What matters most is a young family that is trying to cope with difficult life issues in a secluded and caring way. Whenever Tiger may return to the game should be on the family’s terms alone.
Although there has been considerable inquiry about Tiger’s sponsorships, it would be both premature and inappropriate to comment on the status of specific business relationships. Suffice it to say, we have had thoughtful conversations and his sponsors have been open to a solution-oriented dialogue. Of course, each sponsor has unique considerations and ultimately the decisions they make we would fully understand and accept."
Building on the 'shoulders of giants', Tiger singlehandedly has been responsible for the most dramatic surge in public golf interest and professional golf earnings in the history of the game. His untimely moral demise has epic financial consequences for an already economically-besieged industry.
Golf is bigger than Tiger, no question.
But, for the moment, it's 'batten down the hatches' for the PGA TOUR, television networks, tournament sponsors, Wall Street advertisers and last, but certainly not least, Tiger Woods Enterprises.
But, for the moment, it's 'batten down the hatches' for the PGA TOUR, television networks, tournament sponsors, Wall Street advertisers and last, but certainly not least, Tiger Woods Enterprises.
Assuming Tiger makes a world class execution as we all hope the fallen hero does, he will emerge in 18 months with his stained garments sufficiently cleaned for the general public. (Disregard any Presidential references).
Kudos to the handlers because moral issues aside, the sport can't afford to lose him.
I wouldn't want to be in his shoes for a billion dollars.
__________________
Bagger
1-H "Because of questions of all kinds, reams of additional detail must be made available - but separately, and probably endlessly." Homer Kelly
Hybrid Mode
