Miami (AFP)
US superstar Tiger Woods, winner of 15 Grand Slam tournaments, will be inducted into the World Golf Hall of Fame in promotion 2021, the committee said on Wednesday.
According to the St. Augustine, Florida-based committee, Woods was informed of his appointment to the male competitor category by a simple phone call from PGA Tour commissioner Jay Monahan.
"I am both honored and humbled to be inducted into the World Golf Hall of Fame," Woods said in a statement. "Last year was an incredible journey and the support I received from my family, friends and fans was extraordinary. This award is the ultimate recognition that you should never give up but always keep on to fight".
Woods, 44, was one of 10 finalists named in March as consecration candidates in 2021. Among his 93 victories in international tournaments, there was a record 82 titles in the American PGA Tour.
He won his 15th major Masters title last April, ending 11 years of famine after suffering injuries serious enough to jeopardize his career.
The native of Cypress, California, completed in 2000-2001 the "Tiger Slam" by becoming the first golfer since Bobby Jones in the years 1920-30 to hold the four titles of major champion at the same time.
"Tiger has done more for golf than anyone ever thought possible, and his historic golf exploits are just one aspect of his impact," said Monahan, calling Woods' footprint on the sport " immeasurable. "
The 2021 promotion was chosen by the Hall of Fame selection committee, a 20-member jury co-chaired by Beth Daniel, Nick Price, Annika Sorenstam and Curtis Strange. Other golfers inducted in 2021 will be announced in the coming days.
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