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I’m continually baffled by the criticism launched against Tiger Woods and the controversy over whether he’s the No. 1 player in the world. I just don’t understand the way media and others abuse Tiger from head to toe when he’s not playing up to their standards.
What represents a No. 1 player? To me, it’s how someone responds when the chips are down. As poorly as the world thinks Tiger is playing, he still hasn’t missed a cut, and he almost always finishes in the top 10. Do I think Tiger Woods is the best player in the world? By far. This past NEC World Championship at Firestone Country Club proves how great a player he is. He placed second, and I have to ask: Where were all the world contenders?

That said, do I think he’s playing his best? No. But Tiger is human just like the rest of us. We keep forgetting that he’s still just a young man. And when he gets through this, he’ll be smarter and more determined.

Much of the hoopla over Tiger stems from his shaky status as the world’s No. 1 player. It seems folks are chomping at the bit to replace Tiger as the world’s best. When Phil Mickelson won the Master’s, the world was screaming, “Phil’s the No. 1 player.” And recently, folks were on their knees bowing to Ernie Els. The only player deserving to battle Tiger for the No. 1 spot at this time is Vijay Singh. His play represents that.

It’s obvious that regardless of what Tiger does, it will never be enough. When he’s not playing tip-top, he’s “struggling.” When he’s playing his best, people are frustrated because he’s not giving anyone else a chance. What’s the deal? Is there a hidden agenda? Maybe so, because, for the life of me, I can’t figure out what all the fuss is about.

Everything said, I’m not Tiger’s most devoted fan. But I respect his talent and his desire. Only true athletes can understand how the greats work. Regardless of what anyone says, Tiger has already rewritten the record books. And until someone can do what he has done in this generation, we need to quit criticizing him so much and let the man play. That’s just my two cents.