Tiger Woods receives Presidential Medal of Freedom

U.S. golfer Tiger Woods, 44, who won his fifth Masters title last month, received the Presidential Medal of Freedom.

U.S. President Donald Trump on Tuesday presented Tiger Woods with the Presidential Medal of Freedom in a ceremony held in the Rose Garden at the White House. Trump described Woods as “a true legend, an extraordinary athlete who has transformed golf,” adding “He’s also a great person.”

The Presidential Medal of Freedom, which was established in 1963 by President John F. Kennedy, is the nation’s highest civilian honor. Woods has become the 33rd athlete and fourth American golfer to receive this medal followed by Jack Nicklaus, Arnold Palmer, and Charlie Sifford.

Woods, a fierce competitor on the field, appeared to have difficulty hiding his emotions during the ceremony. Woods was in tears when speaking to his two children, his girlfriend, and his caddie, all of whom were in attendance: “You’ve seen the good and the bad the highs and the lows, and I wouldn’t be here without your help.”

After struggling the past few years from his back injury and scandals, Woods rose to the occasion by clinching his 81st PGA title at the Masters this year. He is now one win behind Sam Snead’s PGA Tour wins record of 82.

Tiger Woods and President Trump often play golf together. Woods designed golf course for President Trump’s Dubai hotel.


Heon-Jae Lee uni@donga.com