Woods honoured by Trump
WASHINGTON: United States President Donald Trump said yesterday he would award Tiger Woods the Presidential Medal of Freedom after the 15time major winner won the Masters for the fifth time on Monday.
‘‘Spoke to @TigerWoods to congratulate him on the great victory he had in yesterday’s @TheMasters, & to inform him that because of his incredible Success & Comeback in Sports (Golf) and, more importantly, LIFE, I will be presenting him with the PRESIDENTIAL MEDAL OF FREEDOM,’’ Trump tweeted.
The victory on Monday was one of the greatest comebacks in sports history, as the 43yearold ended an 11year major title drought having overcome personal and professional setbacks including a highly-public divorce and multiple surgeries.
Trump, an avid golfer, and
Woods have played together in the past including in February when the pair joined great Jack Nicklaus for a round at Trump National Golf Club in Jupiter, Florida.
The medal is the highest civilian honour in the United States and is given annually to people who have made outstanding contributions to the security or national interests of the country, to world peace, or to cultural or other significant public or private endeavours.
Since taking office Trump has given the award to several athletes including baseball great Babe Ruth.
A A Wisconsin man who bet $US85,000 ($NZ126,000) on Tiger Woods to win the Masters was handed a check for $US1.275 million by bookmaker William Hill yesterday.
A video circulating online showed James Adducci picking up his check at SLS Las Vegas Hotel & Casino.
The 39yearold told Golf Digest that the 141 bet was his first sports wager. The stockbroker, who works from home, said he planned to spend the winnings on home improvements and paying off debts while investing the rest. — Reuters