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Sep 5th, 2018
Nicklaus comes out in support of Tiger's Trump comments
And gives verdict on his swing
Golfers have rarely been keen to discuss their political opinions. And – given the fact that the only golfers' opinions we'd care to know are all loaded and most likely vote accordingly – it's probably just as well. Indeed, it came as something of a surprise when PGA Tour player Peter Malnati came out in support of NFL star Colin Kaerpernick's 'take-a-knee' protest against racial inequality last year. Heartwarming as it was to see, you can't really imagine a genuinely high profile golfer getting involved.
This week, following further allegations of Donald Trump's 'colourful' presidency, Tiger Woods was asked about his relationship with POTUS. His response went down very well with a certain Jack Nicklaus who "couldn’t have agreed with Tiger more" in regards to the answers he gave at The Northern Trust.
It was Pulitzer Prize-winning New York Times reporter John Branch who lead the line. Tiger responded: "I've known Donald for a number of years. We've played golf together. We've had dinner together. I've known him pre-presidency and obviously during his presidency."
When asked about his opinion regarding Trump's policies on immigrants., Tiger responded: "Well, he's the President of the United States. You have to respect the office."
Nicklaus was at an event promoting Patriot Golf Day, when he was asked to comment on Tiger's comments.
“I couldn’t have agreed with Tiger more," said Jack, a big Trump supporter. "Whether it’s Barack Obama or Donald Trump in the office of the president, you respect the office. My political views might be different from somebody else’s political views, but it doesn’t make any difference. The office of the president is the head of the greatest country in the world. I think Tiger was very appropriate with what he said."
Jack was also asked about Tiger's resurgence this year. And when Jack makes a comment about your golf swing, you listen.
"I think Tiger’s swing actually looks to be better than it’s ever been," said jack. "His fusion in his back has not allowed him to dip down like he used to. He’s staying pretty much on top of the ball and I think he’s been very level, which has always, to my opinion, been one of Tiger’s problems. I think he’s swinging very well, he’s hitting it very well. Maybe not made as many putts as he used to, but he’s a great competitor, he's a great golfer, he’s a great athlete, he’s a good friend, and I continue to wish him well.
"Probably the 5 inches between his ears, that’s usually the toughest part for all of us," Nicklaus said when asked what Woods most needed to improve. "Believing that you can do it yourself. He’s gotten himself in position, but he hasn’t quite gotten there, and I think he will get there because he’s too good not to."
