The PGA season starts today at Kapulua, one of the most beautiful courses in Mauii. What? Didn't the 2007 season just end? Tiger's not playing, though. Hmmm...does the PGA season really begin if there's no Tiger?
But it's still fun watching the Mercedes Benz Championship, which features all the 2007 winners (except Tiger). The PGA has a new website.
I have so much to be thankful for in 2007. Obviously, my wife and new daughter top the list. I had always heard that fatherhood changes your life and perspective, but until you experience it, there's no way to really understand how much. Every day, Sam does something new that brings a smile to my face. I appreciate the little things, like having her watch me hit balls on the back of the driving range or watch sports with me on TV. She's a wonderful, curious little girl, and Elin and I cherish every moment together.
Golf-wise, I've always said if you win a major, it's a great year. Everything else is gravy. Winning the PGA Championship was the highlight, but I played consistently most of the season and am very pleased with my progress. It was also satisfying to win two World Golf Championship events, and of course, the inaugural FedExCup.
The only disappointments were coming up short at the Masters and U.S. Open. I put myself in position both times, but just couldn't get the job done. I'll think about that during the next few weeks and hopefully come back even stronger in 2008.
It was nice to end the year with a W in the Target World Challenge. Coming off a 10-week break, I wasn't sure how sharp I would be, but I putted great and hit big shots when I needed them. I also accomplished it playing the new Nike ONE Platinum ball. More importantly, we were able to raise a lot of money for the Tiger Woods Foundation, which will enable us to help more kids. My thanks to the players, sponsors, staff, volunteers and of course the fans for making the tournament such a big success.
The Tiger Woods Leaning Center in Anaheim, Ca. has exceeded all expectations, and we are making great progress in our Washington, D.C. efforts. We also have some exciting programs I plan to launch in January 08. More on that later.
I would like to thank my good friend Hank Haney for all his help and support this year. Henry dealt with some family issues and I know it wasn't easy. He didn't attend as many events as he usually does, and rightfully so. But he was there when I needed him. All the countless hours we have put in together are paying off. I have a better understanding of my golf swing than ever before and know how to fix most of my faults. When I don't, Henry will continue to be my extra set of eyes.
I will start the 2008 season next month by defending my title at the Buick Invitational. I want to spend as much time as I can during the holidays with family and friends. Although I've never been much of Christmas guy, things are different now that we have Sam. As a kid, my parents used to give me a left shoe for Christmas and a right shoe for my birthday (Dec. 30). Real funny. I'm not a great shopper, but look forward to picking out a few presents for her.
That's all for now. Elin, Sam and I send our best wishes for the holiday season. Have a safe and healthy New Year.
Last week, I just learned that Phil Mickelson has the most endorsement money of all athletes except Tiger Woods. More than Lebron, more than Kobe, more than Peyton Manning. Well, Phil will be endorsing Crowne Plaza hotels next.
We just received word about a casting call from the producer of upcoming Crowne Plaza Hotel commercials with Phil Mickelson. The commercials will have "meetings" with Phil -- similar to the commercials already running with Natalie Gulbis, Lee Trevino, Alice Cooper, and others. The topics will be:
Look like Phil
Been hit by Phil's golf ball
Phil's biggest fan
Advice for Phil
Left handed greatness
The next Phil
If you're interested, all you have to do is apply online or by mail. You can make your pitch in a written story or a video. For more info, go here.
