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Earl Woods was an iconic figure in the world of golf. He was the father of the legendary, Tiger Woods, one of the most successful golfers of all time. His outspokenness and brashness in interviews, which made waves throughout the sporting world. One of the most controversial interviews he ever did was with Lawrence Donegan. 

He advocated for using golf as a tool for personal and community development and worked to promote the sport among underprivileged youth.

Woods Sr. Supports Tiger Woods’ decision to not speak up

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Racism has had a significant impact on the sports world, with athletes of color facing discrimination and prejudice throughout history. This has led to a lack of representation and opportunities for athletes of color in many sports.

Read more: Being Famous For His Fighting Nature, Tiger Woods Once Revealed How He Keeps Things ‘Competitive’ With His Son Charlie Woods

Progress is being made, but racism still affects the experiences of athletes and fans of color in sports and continues to exist.

via Imago

In a 2002 interview with the Observer Sport Monthly, Woods Sr. was confronted on the fact that his legendary son never stands for the community unlike other famous players like Muhammad Ali. 

Woods Sr. completely supports the goat here. “Quite right too,” he says.  He believes that his son can not stand up for every cause and he shouldn’t be berated for it. “I respect his right not to take up every cause. The media wants poor little Tiger to be a spokesman about everything. There are lots of athletes in the world who have not been spokesmen. Look at your soccer players – they aren’t very articulate and open about the injustices in your country.” 

Woods Sr. has compared his son to the many greats of history, including Mahatma Gandhi. Which makes the whole situation very confusing. If Woods jr. is indeed that great, why not then take a stand for his community. 

Woods Sr. thinks that his son’s intellect is enough to defend his talent as a player and he does not have to engage in arguments to prove his worth. “Ali had his techniques, Tiger has his; intellect, being articulate, understanding, sympathy. Tiger doesn’t have to be out there screaming and hollering at people,” he added.

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Earl Woods: The unorthodox mentor

Woods Sr. was instrumental in the development of his son Tiger Woods as a golfer. From a very young age, he trained his son using unorthodox and intense methods. He began teaching Woods the game when he was only 18 months old, using plastic clubs and a plastic ball. 

Retired Lieutenant Colonel Earl instilled a strong work ethic and competitive spirit in the golf great by pushing him to practice for hours on end.

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He also emphasized the importance of mental preparation and visualization, encouraging Woods to imagine himself winning major tournaments. 

Watch this story: Tiger Woods’ Father Earl Woods Once Got Emotional While Expressing Pride for His Son’s Impact in the World

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