TEARFUL Tiger Woods could barely contain his emotion last night as he thanked fans at a White House ceremony where Donald Trump awarded him the Medal of Freedom.
The golf ace, 43, stunned the world after coming back from the brink of a career collapse to secure a staggering fifth Masters title at Augusta National last month.
It capped off a spectacular return to his mind-bending best following an 11-year Majors drought which was plagued with injury - and high-profile personal problems off the course.
Addressing his struggle, Woods thanked those who have supported him over the years.
Speaking from the White House's Rose Garden in front of keen fan Mr Trump, the World Number Two said: "You've seen the good and bad, the highs and lows.
"And I would not be in this position without all of your help.
"I've battled, I try to hang in there, and I've tried to come back and play the great game of golf again."
Woods recalled his breakthrough triumph at Augusta 22 years ago - which the then 21-year-old celebrated with his father and mentor Earl, who died in 2006.
He said: "In '97, yes, I won the Masters and I ended up hugging my dad and my mom."
His voice cracking with emotion, Woods added: "My dad is no longer here but my mom is here - I love you mom", referring to mum Kutilda.
He went on to thank his two children - daughter, Sam Alexis, 11, and son, Charlie Axel, 10 - as well as girlfriend Erica Herman.
Woods added: "The amazing Masters experience I just had a few weeks ago certainly is part of the highlight of what I've accomplished in my life on the golf course."
Trump, a keen golfer, described the 15-times Major champion as a "a global symbol of American excellence, devotion and drive".
Woods joined Arnold Palmer, Charlie Sifford and Jack Nicklaus as the only golfers to have received the award - the highest civilian honour in the United States.
It is given annually to people who have made outstanding contributions to the security or national interests of the US.
The medal is also given out for contributions towards world peace - or to cultural or other significant public or private endeavours.
Since taking office Trump has given the award to several US athletes - including NFL players Roger Staubach and Alan Page.
Previous recipients include Margaret Thatcher, Tony Blair, Nelson Mandela, Mother Theresa, Aretha Franklin,Robert De Niro, Bob Dylan and Elvis Presley.
The only other golfers to receive the award are Jack Nicklaus, Arnold Palmer and Charles Sifford, the first African American to play on the professional tour in the 1950s.
- NOW read how Woods roared again after his sex scandal, crippling back injury and arrest