Besides his initial entry into the PGA, Tiger Woods’ sex scandal was the best thing to ever happen to professional golf. The PGA has reaped priceless publicity since Woods’ extramarital affairs were revealed to the public. And with Woods’ return to the Masters after a five-month hiatus, the PGA will play host to the biggest sports event in history.
The anticipation of his return has the astronomical appeal of the Super Bowl or World Cup. Although the tickets to the Masters have a face value of $200, it’s likely that ticket brokers will receive $2,400 or more per ticket. During Woods’ absence from the PGA Tour, TV ratings for the PGA dropped by 50 percent. If Woods reaches the championship round at the Masters, it’s expected that TV ratings could surpass the 2010 Super Bowl, which currently stands as the most watched TV program in history.
PGA Tour officials are salivating over Woods’ return, enraptured by the financial rewards that are sure to follow.
With a story line that has the makings of a Hollywood soap opera, Woods’ sex scandal adds drama and intrigue to a sport that offers all the excitement of watching paint dry. In a few weeks, the entire world will be paying attention. –amir shaw
