Tiger Woods allure remains strong as world number one heads to India

The continued commercial appeal of Tiger Woods will be endorsed this week, with the world number one making an appearance in India reckoned to be worth a seven-figure dollar sum.

On his first visit to India Woods will play in an exhibition match on Tuesday at the Delhi Golf and Country Club. He will feature alongside Shiv Kapur, one of India’s most high-profile players who is sponsored by the Hero Motor Group, the company behind Woods’s visit.

Woods will also officially open a set of apartments which have been named after him.

The 14-times Major winner would have received a significant appearance fee for playing in last weekend’s Dubai Desert Classic, in which he finished in a tie for 41st – his worst ever finish in the event.

“I don’t know,” said Woods when asked what he expects from his Indian trip. “I have never been. This will be my first time so it will be fun. Then I will head back home to see my kids.”

Although it has not yet been confirmed, Woods is expected to skip the WGC-Accenture Match Play Championship at the end of this month.

Adrian Flaherty, the promoter of the Dubai tournament, insisted the Woods allure remains strong. "I don't think it ever wears off." Flaherty said. "The guy brings everything, the whole ball game, to the tournament.

'Pleased to see him'
"I don't think the novelty ever wears off here. I think he is by far the biggest and one of the greatest athletes that's ever been in this country. Everyone is always pleased to see him."

Kapur was similarly effusive about the significance of Woods’s Indian debut.

“Tiger’s visit to India is going to make a huge impact and there is a big buzz already not only in Delhi but the whole country,” said Kapur.

“I know the members at my club are very excited and there are going to be people climbing all over the walls just to get a glimpse of Tiger.

Guardian Service