Tiger Fined for Spitting

Tiger Woods was fined by the European Tour for spitting during the final round of the Dubai Desert Classic on Sunday. The incident occurred on the 12th green at Emirates Golf Club's Majlis Course.

The amount of the financial penalty was not disclosed, but the announcement by European Tour officials was enough for Woods to make a public response.

"It was inconsiderate to spit like that and I know better. Just wasn't thinking and want to say I'm sorry," he said while agreeing with the tour's fine in a Twitter posting.

The incident was not only observed by tour officials but also TV commentators, who described Woods - who received a reported $3 million appearance fee for playing in the tournament - as arrogant and petulant. "It doesn't get much lower than that," remarked Sky TV's Ewen Murray.

Within minutes of the comments, the European Tour's website received dozens of complaints. In a statement, the tour said: "The tournament director, Mike Stewart, has reviewed the incident and feels there has been a breach of the tour code of conduct and consequently Tiger Woods will be fined. The tour will not be publicizing the amount."

Under the code a player can be fined between £250 and £10,000 for a "minor breach," such as Woods's behavior.

After getting within a shot of the lead through 54 holes, No. 3-ranked Woods stumbled to a 3-over 75 on Sunday. He ended up at 4-under 284 and tied for 20th, seven shots behind winner Alvaro Quiros of Spain. "Very frustrating," Woods said of his round. "I got off to such a poor start - I was two-over through three early and just couldn't make it up from there."

His next tournament is the Accenture World Match Play Championship in Tucson next week.

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