Tiger, on his game, makes big strides toward forgiveness

Back in his element, Woods conveys sincerity with a well-sculpted Q&A session

Tiger Woods’s attempt at a makeover began hours before his news conference yesterday at Augusta, Ga. In actions not typical of his prior persona, he smiled and waved at the crowd during practice rounds for the Masters Tournament on Monday morning. One reporter noted interacting with spectators is something the “old Tiger” wouldn’t have done.

Why did he even need to change his persona or hold a news conference? Most likely, this is being done to rehabilitate himself for his sponsors and many of his fans.

A poll taken recently by Seton Hall Sports showed that men are more willing to forgive and move on than women are.

His goal should be to be likeable and to restore his reputation. The news conference was part of that plan.

So did he accomplish this goal? For many people, the answer is yes. He certainly went a long way with a well-handled news conference.

He came across far better than when he read a carefully worded statement in February. He was natural, and the emotion felt real as opposed to rehearsed. He was, indeed, likable.