ORLANDO, Calif. — Tiger Woods has decided that it’s time to quit golf and focus on his family.
The embattled golfer released a statement Friday in which he admitted to cheating on his wife for the first time, while also announcing plans to put his golf career on an “indefinite” hold.
“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,” Wood said. “I want to say again to everyone that I am profoundly sorry and that I ask forgiveness. 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,” he continued. “What’s most important now is that my family has the time, privacy, and safe haven we will need for personal healing.
“After much soul searching, I have decided to take an indefinite break from professional golf. 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,” ended Woods.
Woods, 33, has been under the microscope ever since a single-car accident outside his home on Nov. 27. The accident came shortly after the National Enquirer published a story alleging that the PGA star was having an affair with Rachel Uchitel, a New York nightclub manager.
Since the first affair allegation, several more women have stepped forward claiming to have engaged in sexual trysts with Woods, including former VH1 Tool Academy contestant Jaimee Grubbs and porn star Holly Sampson.
The world’s No. 1 golfer previously admitted to “transgressions,” but did not elaborate in a statement posted Dec. 2 on his Web site.
Woods and his wife, Elin Nordegren, married in 2004. They have two children, daughter Sam Alexis, 2, and son, Charlie Axel Woods, 10 months.
