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Trump invites Tiger Woods to White House after Masters comeback, may award him Presidential Medal of Freedom

The golf ace is set to visit the White House for a reception with President Trump after a stunning one-stroke victory in the Masters at Augusta on April 14

BY KUNAL DEY

UPDATED APR 1, 2020

Golf ace Tiger Woods is set for a congratulatory reception at the White House after an invitation by President Donald Trump who wanted to felicitate his longtime friend and international sports legend for his stunning comeback victory at the Masters.

On April 14, the 43-year-old ace shot a two-under-par 70 during the final round to claim a historic victory after a series of injuries and personal problems mired his career. This was his first Masters win after 14 years as the last time he won the title was in 2005. This was his 15th major championship win after the 2008 US Open, Daily Mail reports.

Tiger Woods of the United States celebrates with the Masters Trophy during the Green Jacket Ceremony after winning the Masters at Augusta National Golf Club on April 14, 2019, in Augusta, Georgia. (Photo by Andrew Redington/Getty Images)

Trump rooted for his friend all along, tweeting his support during the final moments.

The golfer has been a longtime pal of Trump and played with him several times in the past.

In February, the US president tweeted a photo with Woods and Jack Nicklaus on course at the Trump National Golf Club in Jupiter, Florida.

Now, Woods is set to visit the White House in Washington DC next Monday for a presidential reception, according to Fox News.

(L-R) Eric Trump, Donald Trump, Tiger Woods, Ivanka Trump, and Donald Trump Jr. cut a ribbon in front of the Tiger Woods Villa prior to the start of the World Golf Championships-Cadillac Championship at Trump National Doral on March 5, 2014, in Doral, Florida. (Photo by Scott Halleran/Getty Images)

Woods has bagged a total of 81 PGA victories and amassed more than $118 million in career earnings, with his latest Masters victory winnings amounting to $2.07 million.

In May 2017, Woods was arrested on DUI charges and had to complete a pre-trial diversion program.

In the 14-year gap between his Masters wins, he has had multiple surgeries on his back and knees, an infamous break up with his ex-wife, and has had to relearn his golf swing and game, per USA Today.

AUGUSTA, GEORGIA - APRIL 14: Tiger Woods (L) of the United States celebrates on the 18th green after winning the Masters at Augusta National Golf Club on April 14, 2019, in Augusta, Georgia. (Photo by Andrew Redington/Getty Images)

After his win, Trump hailed Woods as a "great champion" and promised to bestow on him the Presidential Medal of Freedom.

The Presidential Medal of Freedom is considered the nation’s highest civilian honor, awarded to individuals who have made special meritorious contributions to the security and national interests of the United States, to cultural or public endeavors, or to world peace.

In 2018, the president gave posthumous awards to Babe Ruth, Elvis Presley, and Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia.