Daly hopes for early Tiger return

COOLUM, Australia – Tiger Woods’ decision to take an indefinite break from golf has brought understanding, if not forgiveness, from his fellow pros.

The news surprised former US Open champion Geoff Ogilvy, who is two strokes off the lead at the Australian PGA after three rounds.

“I didn’t expect that. He obviously has some stuff to sort through,” Ogilvy said. “Indefinite is a scary word. That’s not good for us. But I’m sure he’ll get it worked out.”

John Daly, who has had his share of marital problems and issues off the golf course, said he hopes the tour gets him back soon.

“They always say there is no one bigger in golf than the game itself,” Daly added. “But Tiger is.”

“He is trying to save his marriage,” Daly said at the Australian PGA. “My advice to him last week was that he should have come out a lot earlier ... told the truth, got it all out on the table.

“That would have made the so-called other women, whether it is true or not, to kind of maybe sit back and not say anything.”

Daly, a former US PGA and British Open winner, has tried to contact Woods to no avail.

“I have tried to get a hold of Tiger and his manager, and he just didn’t want to talk to anybody,” Daly said.

“I feel like if there’s anybody in this world, after what I’ve gone through, the ups and downs, I might give him some advice.”

Daly, who has been married four times, also cautioned Woods and his wife, Elin, to remain together for the right reason.

“You don’t stay married for the kids or the money. You stay together because you love each other,” said Daly.

“You can’t imagine what he’s going through, but he’s definitely screwed up and I wish his statement had been a lot earlier.”

Daly said he and others are still reeling from the ongoing Woods saga.

“I’m in shock over it all, a lot of our players are in shock,” said Daly. “I’m not happy with the way some of our players have responded – that’s their way of getting back because they know they can’t beat him at golf.    (AP)