US PGA backs Tiger`s hiatus from play

Orlando: US PGA Tour officials, who have ridden the fame of Tiger Woods to record prize money totals and television profits, on Friday backed the star`s decision to take an "indefinite break" from golf.

In a statement quickly following Woods`s announcement that his timetable for a return was unknown and his admission of "personal sins" and "transgressions," the PGA released a statement backing his move."We fully support Tiger`s decision to step away from competitive golf to focus on his family," the PGA Tour statement said. "His priorities are where they need to be and we will continue to respect and honor his family`s request for privacy. We look forward to Tiger`s return to the PGA Tour when he determines the time is right for him." Woods, the first athlete to earn one billion dollars from endorsements and prize money, has drawn extra attention and sponsor support to golf on his way to 14 major titles, four shy of the record total won by Jack Nicklaus.Any lengthy absence by the world number one threatens to diminish viewer and sponsor support for tour events and even major tournaments. The next three major tournaments - the Masters in April at Augusta National, the US Open in June at Pebble Beach and the British Open in July at St. Andrews, will all be played on courses upon which Woods has won a major crown. Bureau Report