President Donald Trump announced in a tweet Monday that he will bestow upon Tiger Woods one of the United States’ highest civilian honors: the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
Spoke to @TigerWoods to congratulate him on the great victory he had in yesterday’s @TheMasters, & to inform him that because of his incredible Success & Comeback in Sports (Golf) and, more importantly, LIFE, I will be presenting him with the PRESIDENTIAL MEDAL OF FREEDOM!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) April 15, 2019
Woods captured his fifth green jacket Sunday and his first major victory in 11 years, prompting congratulations from both Trump and his predecessor, President Barack Obama.
Congratulations to @TigerWoods., a truly Great Champion!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) April 14, 2019
Congratulations, Tiger! To come back and win the Masters after all the highs and lows is a testament to excellence, grit, and determination.
— Barack Obama (@BarackObama) April 14, 2019
Woods will become just the fourth golfer to receive the award. Arnold Palmer and Jack Nicklaus were honored by president George W. Bush in 2004 and 2005, respectively. Charlie Sifford was honored by Obama in 2014, prompting this tweet from Woods, now five years ago:
You're the grandpa I never had. Your past sacrifices allow me to play golf today. I'm so happy for you Charlie.
— Tiger Woods (@TigerWoods) November 11, 2014
Woods will be the fourth sportsman to receive the award during Trump’s presidency, following Babe Ruth, Roger Staubach and Alan Page.
Trump did not in his tweet specify when the ceremony will take place.