Finchem backs Woods' approach

PGA Tour commissioner Tim Finchem believes Tiger Woods will still be a positive asset for golf whenever he returns.

Finchem has also tried to minimise the impact that both the absence of the world number one and the nature of the scandal he is currently engulfed in will have on golf.

‘I don't see corporate America backing away from golf over Tiger's issues,’ said Finchem.

‘At the end of the day after all the media scrutiny, if he can successfully deal with those issues and come back that will be a positive thing. When you look back on the last 13 years Tiger Woods has been an incredibly positive asset and impactor for the PGA Tour.

‘He has been good for the game and the Tour has been good for him. At this time we anticipate that mutual benefit will continue when it is right and we just have to see how that plays out.’

Woods announced an indefinite break from the sport last Friday after a series of allegations over his private life.

He admitted his infidelity and apologised for his actions, but Accenture has already terminated its contract with him, Gillette are no longer using him in advertisements and other sponsors are considering their deals.

Discussing Woods' break, Finchem said: ‘We issued a statement saying that we were supportive of that decision. It was the right step at this time and his priorities were in the right place. I have respected his privacy in this matter.’

Finchem also stated that Woods will not face disciplinary measures for conduct unbecoming - and nor does he have any concerns at the moment over Woods' involvement with Anthony Galea, a leading sports injury specialist under criminal investigation concerning performance-enhancing drugs.

On the possibility of a fine or suspension, Finchem commented: ‘Our regulations relate to conduct unbecoming either in public areas or law enforcement areas.

‘The PGA Tour has never in my knowledge taken a situation in someone's personal life and dealt with it in a disciplinary manner.’

Finchem has reacted to all the speculation about how much money this could cost his Tour.

'We are going to be successful in 2010 whether he is out for a couple of months, eight months or the year. It won't be at the same level - it wouldn't be in any sport losing its top player - but I think the doom and gloom needs to go away. I think it's misleading for our fans.

'We are going to have a full schedule, a solid schedule and prize money will be up slightly. Here is the real world. I know some pundits will say 'Tim is trying to spin things' but facts are facts.'

He added that of 46 tournaments Woods normally plays only 16, yet the others are still successful.

'There is real value to sponsors, television and charity and there are other players the fans like. The brand is strong.'

On the drug inquiry Finchem also stated: 'We have a vigorous testing programme and I have no reason to have a concern.'