The media called Tiger Wood’s announcement this evening that he was taking ‘an indefinite break from professional golf ‘ because of his ‘infidelity’ a ‘bombshell’, but I think it is more likely the right, human and expected thing to do, albeit somewhat delayed, for a couple that wants to salvage their marriage.

As a result, I think the media should also step up to the plate and give Tiger what he is pleading for, “privacy for my family.”

This will be difficult for the tabloid press around the world, but if once they could put the word ‘family’ in front of ‘celebrity’ they may help the world’s greatest golfer get out of the rough sooner than later.

Woods posted on his website this evening a four paragraph confessional that began by saying:

“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.  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.”

He went on to say, “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.”

Fortunately Tiger has the wherewithal to take this step to right a wrong that his frailties caused.

However, his statement recognized what impact his golf  hiatus might have:

“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.  What’s most important now is that my family has the time, privacy, and safe haven we will need for personal healing.”

His departure from the golfing scene will have significant impact on sponsors, the PGA, his foundation and fans of the game.

Tiger’s statement strikes a tone of humility and conciliation.  He said in prior statements that he was ‘human’ and not ‘perfect’, although many duffers thought otherwise.

Few will forget his many counts of ‘infidelity’ and it will be everlasting in his biography.

And so, as his yacht ‘Privacy’ is being readied to set sail, let’s give the Tiger a mulligan and provide him and his family some space to heal.