Woods Interviewed by Feds for Involvement in HGH


Tiger Woods has been interviewed by federal authorities investigating a Canadian doctor accused of distributing human growth hormone, according to a report by The Associated Press.

A person familiar with the investigation spoke to the AP on the condition of anonymity because the investigation of Dr. Anthony Galea is ongoing. Woods has admitted he was treated by Galea during his recuperation from knee surgery in 2009, but insists he didn't receive any performance-enhancing drugs during that treatment.

"Tiger willingly spoke to the authorities and cooperated fully," Woods' agent, Mark Steinberg, told the AP in an e-mail. "It was confirmed that because he did nothing illegal, he is not the subject of any criminal investigation. Because there is an ongoing investigation involving others, there will be no further comment."

Not authorized to practice medicine in the U.S., Galea has been accused of repeatedly entering the country to treat professional athletes from Major League Baseball, the NFL and the PGA Tour. A May 18, 2010, criminal complaint filed by the U.S. charged Galea with conspiracy, smuggling, distributing human growth hormone and introducing an unapproved drug into interstate commerce. If convicted of the smuggling charges, Galea could face up to 20 years in prison. The other charges carry maximum sentences of three and five years.

Among other athletes in addition to Woods who have been contacted by federal authorities as part of the investigation are New York Mets' Jose Reyes and Carlos Beltran, and the New York Yankees' Alex Rodriguez, all of whom deny any wrongdoing.

No athletes have been identified by name in the government's criminal complaint or supporting affidavit, which describes the 50-year-old Galea traveling to meet with professional athletes in New York City, Boston, Tampa Bay, Washington D.C. and other American cities from July through September of 2009.

Last October Canadian authorities charged Galea with selling Actovegin, conspiracy to import an unapproved drug, conspiracy to export a drug and smuggling.

For the full Associated Press report, visit http://www.golfweek.com/news/2010/jun/30/source-feds-question-woods-hgh-probe.