Woods to get honorary doctorate from Thai university

Woods to get honorary doctorate from Thai university

BANGKOK (AP): A Thai university will give Tiger Woods a honorary doctorate of philosophy in sports science to honor his talents and excellence in golf, a university representative said Wednesday.

Woods has agreed to accept the degree from the Kasetsart University in Bangkok, said assistant professor Wallee Phattarophas of the university's department of sports science.

Woods, whose mother a Thai, will be in Thailand this month to play in the 10th Johnnie Walker Classic tournament to be held in Bangkok from Nov. 16 to Nov. 19.

He will compete with about 156 other players from the European, Australian and Asian tours and leading players from the Asian region.

Wallee said the degree presentation will take place at a hotel in Bangkok on Nov. 14.

"The degree is to honor his talent and excellence in playing golf," she said.

The appearance of Woods, the No. 1 player at the event and a national hero in Thailand, is expected to boost the country's reputation as a golfing destination for foreigners. He is also expected to draw huge local crowds and media attention.

In 1998, Woods staged one of his greatest comebacks in Thailand, making up an eight-stroke deficit on the final day to beat Ernie Els in a playoff in this event in Phuket.

This year, Woods may find himself in the middle of a Thai political feud as he will be playing in the Alpine Golf Course, which is linked to Thaksin Shinawatra, who aspires to the prime minister's job.

The government is looking into accusations that Thaksin indirectly owns the golf course in violation of asset disclosure laws.

The course was designed by American Ronald Garl.