Q&A with Tiger

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Tiger Woods has played four tournaments in 2009 and has one win.

April 2009: Tiger responds to five Club Tiger member emails.

Q. Hi Tiger. I was wondering if Elin gets out of sorts because you spend so much time involved in golf? -- Marsha from Prescott Valley

A. No, Elin's great about my work. She's an outstanding athlete and understands the commitment necessary to succeed. When I'm home, I do practice, but I also spend a lot of time with my family. While it was disappointing being injured last year, I was able to stay home with Elin and watch Sam grow up before my eyes. I wouldn't trade that for everything.

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Q. Tiger, when you play nine holes during practice who do you play with? -- Jason from Tampa, Fla.

A. Jason, it all depends if anything has been scheduled. If it's a pre-arranged round, it might be with Bubba Watson, Charles Howell or any number of players. Sometimes I'll go out and practice and join whoever is already on the course.

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Q. Is there a rule or policy about practicing at a course that is hosting a major championship? If your schedule permitted, could you (or would you) practice at Bethpage Black even before the week of the U.S. Open? -- Scott from Irvington, N.Y.

A. Typically, we can practice at the course hosting a major. If it's a location I know well, and there haven't been a lot of changes, I may wait until tournament week before I practice. Augusta this year was an example of that. If it's a new venue, or one I hadn't played lately, I may go early and play. I'm not sure yet what I'll do for the U.S. Open.

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Q. Hi Tiger! Who has given you your best pep talk and what did they say? I'm a big believer in pep talks and want to know what really gets you pumped up on a bad day. Thanks. -- Kristi from Tampa, Fla.

A. Kristi, my dad not only provided me the best motivation, but he also seemed to understand every situation and problem. One of the things he liked to say was, "you get out what you put in." I still believe that today. We impart his wisdom at my Foundation, and I want to teach it to Sam and Charlie too.

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Q. Dear Tiger-So good to have you back playing. What are you enjoying the most about being back on the golf course? -- Elizabeth from Clemmons, N.C.

A. Elizabeth, I really enjoy the competition. It was great standing over a putt at Bay Hill with a chance to win, and I really enjoyed the final round with Phil at Augusta. The camaraderie on the TOUR is also very special. I'm truly blessed that I love what I do and love being at home.