NewsMax.com
Wednesday, Nov. 8, 2000

Speaking to Golf World magazine, Woods charged that PGA Commissioner Tim Finchem speaks to him only when he wants him to play in a certain tournament, and he resents the way the tour exploits his image to promote its marketing strategies.

"I believe what I believe in," Woods told the magazine. "I understand the whole picture. What amazes me is how much the public doesn’t understand."

His discontent, he added, is "serious enough that if we don’t make everyone aware of it now, it could escalate into a bigger situation."

According to tour spokesman Bob Combs, Finchem does not discuss player relationships with the media, but added that the commissioner and Woods have a "solid relationship."

"I’m confused by these implications," Combs said. "At every tournament, Tim has been very public and very clear about the excitement Tiger has injected into professional golf.

"Obviously, the tour takes the concerns of any of its members seriously. I’m sure the commissioner and Tiger will have an opportunity to discuss Tiger’s concerns."

But Woods told Golf World that he and Finchem barely communicate.

"The only time he talks to me is when he wants me to do something for him," Woods said.

"To play in this tournament or that tournament. It’s not like he comes up to me and asks me how I’m doing."