Tiger Woods' Apology Praises Wife, but Where was His Wedding Ring?

Tiger Woods held a press conference on Friday to apologize for his sexual indiscretions, whose revelations were triggered by his November car crash. While Woods maintained a somber countenance throughout the 14-minute event, his lack if wedding ring may speak louder than his apology. Even with all the marital drama, are fans ready to accept the apology and see Tiger back on the golf course?

Tiger Woods Apologizes to Everyone

Tiger Woods seemed to apologize to any and everyone during the press conference, which was aired by many major media outlets (including CNN.com). "I am deeply sorry for my irresponsible and selfish behavior I engaged in," said Woods.

Woods apologized to his children (Sam Alexis and Charlie Axel), friends, fans, directors, employees, foundation and sponsors. Although his apology to sponsors may just be limited to those supporting his foundation, given the timing of his press conference. The New York Post reports that Accenture was the first sponsor to drop Tiger Woods, when news of his infidelity came to light. Woods scheduled his press conference during Accentures' Match Play Championship in Arizona. Woods did thank Accenture and the players for understanding his need to apologize, but it is obvious which event would be easier to reschedule.

Woods Praises Wife at Press Conference

Tiger Woods stated that he and his wife, Elin Nordegren, "have started the process of discussing the damaged caused by my behavior. As she pointed out to me, my real apology to her will not come in the form of words. It will come from my behavior over time."

Woods went on to say that the couple had much to talk about, but made it clear those discussions would be in private. He made it a point to clarify that Nordegren did not attack him on Thanksgiving night, saying the rumors angered him. Woods stated, "There has never been an episode of domestic violence in our marriage. Ever."

Woods complimented the "enormous grace and poise" his wife has demonstrated throughout the debacle. "Elin deserves praise, not blame."

So Where Was Tiger Woods' Wedding Ring?

Since Woods pointed out that his actions will mean more to his wife than his apology, where was his wedding ring? Nordegren has been about publicly without her wedding ring, but she was the wronged spouse. Tiger will have to be the one to win her back. Her marriage to him and his subsequent infidelity have caused her much public humiliation.

If Tiger is playing the apologetic husband, it might have been wise for him to wear the ring that stands for his commitment to his marriage. Even if he doesn't typically wear a wedding band, Friday's press conference would have been a good time to start. His wife isn't the only one closely examining his actions.

Have Fans Accepted Tiger Woods' Apology?

The lack of wedding ring may have fans doubting the sincerity of Woods' apology, but do they still want him playing pro golf? According to an ABC News poll taken before Woods' press conference, 65% of adults think he should return to golf this season. The number rises to 75%, for those who are golf fans. A mere 7% thought he should retire.

Those numbers are likely to rise, if you take into account other celebrity philanderers. Former President Bill Clinton and actor Brad Pitt, known cheaters, still enjoy a high degree of popularity and fame. Clinton is often on news programs and was recently asked by President Obama to lead a national drive to raise money for Haitian Earthquake victims. Pitt, the star of the Oscar-nominated "Inglorious Basterds," received very little remonstration for cheating on Jennifer Aniston.

Fans may be ready for Tiger Woods to immediately get back to golf, but the press conference indicated they will have to wait. Woods said that he will be heading back for treatment. He did give fans a little hope, saying that he would be returning to golf and wouldn't rule out this year.

Sources:

http://www.cnn.com/2010/US/02/19/tiger.woods.transcript/index.html

http://web.tigerwoods.com/aboutTiger/bio

Tiger Out of His Cage, by Dan Mangan, New York Post

http://abcnews.go.com/PollingUnit/tiger-woods-poll-65-percent-resume-playing-golf/story?id=9879182