‘Respect’: Post-tournament interview with Tiger Woods turns political

by WorldTribune Staff, August 27, 2018

What happens when the New York Times tries to work golf into its world view?

Tiger Woods competes in the final round of The Northern Trust tournament. / Getty Images

Legendary golfer Tiger Woods, after completing his final round at The Northern Trust tournament in New Jersey on Aug. 26, was asked by a reporter from the Times about race relations and his relationship with President Donald Trump.

The reporter reminded Woods that, under Trump, “colored immigrants are threatened by him and his policy” and asked Woods to respond to people “who might find it interesting that you have a friendly relationship” with Trump.

“Well, I’ve known Donald for a number of years,” Woods responded. “We’ve played golf together and you know we’ve had dinner together. And so yeah, I’ve known him pre-presidency and obviously during his presidency.”

The reporter then asked about Trump’s “sports debates” such as his Twitter spat with NBA star LeBron James and his open opposition to the national anthem protests in the NFL.

“Well, he’s the President of the United States and you have to respect the office,” Woods responded. “No matter who is in the office, you may like, dislike the personality or the politics, but we all must respect the office.”

The reporter persisted, asking Woods if he had any other comments about “race relations” in the country.

“No. I just finished 72 holes and I’m really hungry,” Woods responded before moving on to answer questions about – golf.

Trump lauded Woods for his response to the reporter’s broadside:

“The Fake News Media worked hard to get Tiger Woods to say something that he didn’t want to say,” Trump tweeted. “Tiger wouldn’t play the game – he is very smart. More importantly, he is playing great golf again!”


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