Golf superstar Tiger Woods called George Floyd’s death a “shocking
tragedy” but said violent protests were not the answer as unrest flared
across the United States on Monday.
Woods said he had the “utmost respect” for police and likened the
situation to the Los Angeles riots of 1992, after four police officers were
acquitted over the beating of motorist Rodney King.
America is witnessing its most widespread protests since the 1960s
after Floyd, an unarmed black man, died while being arrested in
Minneapolis.
“My heart goes out to George Floyd, his loved ones and all of us who
are hurting right now,” Woods said in a statement on Twitter.
“I have always had the utmost respect for our law enforcement. They
train so diligently to understand how, when and where to use force.
“This shocking tragedy clearly crossed that line.”
Woods’ statement follows strong comments from a number of athletes
including NBA legend Michael Jordan, who said he was “plain angry”, and
tennis player Coco Gauff, who asked: “Am I next?”
“I remember the LA riots and learned that education is the best path
forward,” wrote Woods, the 15-time major-winner. “We can make our points
without burning the very neighbourhoods that we live in.
“I hope that through constructive, honest conversations we can build a safer, unified society.”
— Tiger Woods (@TigerWoods) June 2, 2020
