STAND BACK

Mark O'Meara, one of the best friends of Tiger Woods says that he has been hitting a few balls with Tiger of late.

Tiger has been off his feet after surgery. This was immediately after winning his last major while hobbling about in pain. He may resume play shortly.

O'Meara says that Tiger is looking better than ever.

Ouch!

Tiger is one of those once-in-a-lifetime performers - say, like a Pavarotti - that brings people who have never looked at a golf ball or listened to an opera to not only watch and listen but to become raving fans.

For the sponsors, tournament organizers, broadcasters, writers and Tiger nuts - like me - this is exciting news.

For the other guys with expensive sticks in their hands...