Watson slap for Woods

Tom Watson, who made himself a local hero when he just missed out on claiming the 2009 Open at Turnberry at the age of 59, has taken a strong tilt at Tiger Woods' behaviour. He commented at the Dubai Desert Classic, where he shot a first round 73, that Tiger Woods needs to "show some humility to the public" when he returns to golf after sorting out his personal life.
Woods has been known to swear and indulge in club throwing and Watson recommended that he should clean up his act if the World No.1wishes to be considered among the true legends of the game.
Since he crashed his car on Nov. 27, 2009, outside his Florida home and it emerged that he has had several extra-marital affairs, Woods has taken indefinite leave from golf.
Watson said: "Tiger has to take ownership of what he has done. He must get his personal life in order. I think that's what he's trying to do. And when he comes back, he has to show some humility to the public.
"I would come out, and I would do an interview with somebody and say, 'You know what? I screwed up. And I admit it. I am trying to change. I want my wife and family back'."
Himself a multi-major winner,  and one of the game's elder statesmen, Watson also criticised Woods for his bad language and other inappropriate behaviour on the golf course.
"I feel that he has not carried the same stature of other great players that have come along, like Jack [Nicklaus], Arnold [Palmer], Byron Nelson and Hogans," Watson said.
"You can grant that of a young person who has not been out here for a while. But I think he needs to clean up his act and show the respect for the game that other people before him have shown."
Meanwhile US Ryder Cup captain Corey Pavin has given Woods the go-ahead to take part in the match against Europe at The Celtic Manor, Wales in October.

But despite his likely participation, bookmakers William Hill make Europe the slight favourites at 4/5 to win back the trophy.

"Tiger has been given the green light by his Captain and we feel this is the first step back on the ladder for the World No.1," said Hill's spokesman Rupert Adams.

Woods is also quoted as 1/4 to start the US Masters in April and 5/2 to win it.