Elin never hit me, says Woods

2010-02-19 23:27

Ponte Vedra Beach - An emotional Tiger Woods on Friday lashed out at reports his wife, Elin, "hurt or attacked" him over revelations of marital infidelity that have put the superstar's golf career in limbo.

"Elin never hit me" said Woods, who used his first public appearance in nearly three months to give a long and emotional apology to family, friends and fans.

But the star grew heated as he addressed reports that the Thanksgiving holiday car crash that launched the scandal last November was precipitated by a violent domestic dispute.

"I have a lot to atone for," Woods said. "But there's one issue I really want to discuss."

"Some people have speculated that Elin somehow hurt or attacked me on Thanksgiving night."

"It angers me that people would fabricate a story like that," said Woods, his voice rising. "Elin never hit me that night or any other night."

"There has never been an episode of domestic violence in our marriage, ever."

"Elin has shown enormous grace and poise throughout this ordeal."

"Elin deserves praise, not blame. The issue involved here was my repeated irresponsible behaviour. I was unfaithful. I had affairs. I cheated. What I did is not acceptable. And I am the only person to blame."

- AFP