WASHINGTON – President Barack Obama and his most famous golf partner, Tiger Woods, got together again Tuesday, but at the White House instead of on the course.
Obama honoured a team of U.S. golfers who last year defeated an international team to win their fifth straight Presidents Cup, a victory that was clinched by Woods.
“Last year was the second time I’ve been honorary chairman of the Presidents Cup. The United States won both times. I’m just saying,” Obama quipped during the East Room ceremony as he stood in front of three rows of golfers from both teams, including Phil Mickelson and Ernie Els. All were unusually dressed in suits and ties.
“I’m not used to seeing these guys in suits,” Obama joked.
Obama said he was extraordinarily proud of the Presidents Cup team, including for its contributions to charity. He said he hoped the team’s good fortune would somehow help another sports team whose fate has transfixed America. The U.S. soccer team faces possible elimination in its next World Cup match later this week.
“We hope our World Cup team takes a page out of their playbook when they take on Germany this Thursday,” Obama said.
The Presidents Cup is held every two years between the U.S. and an international team. The 2015 tournament is scheduled for Seoul, South Korea.
Woods, who is recovering from back surgery, was accompanied at the White House by his girlfriend, U.S. skiing star Lindsey Vonn.
Obama and Woods played golf together last year in Florida. The president is an avid golfer who can be found on the golf course most weekends.
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