ONE has 14 Majors, is regarded by many as the greatest to have ever played the game and spent years atop the world's richest athlete list.
The other never bagged a Grand Slam event despite coming close and currently has fewer than half of the professional wins of the other.
Yet Colin Montgomerie insists he would not swap careers with Tiger Woods.
Given their present circumstances, there could be some rationale to Monty's assessment.
For he can at least swing a club at the moment and has not been advised to "stay horizontal" by doctors because of back spasms.
Aside from that, though, Monty is adamant he "over-achieved" as a player and sees no reason to wish he had the success the American did.
The victorious 2010 Ryder Cup captain said: "I never won a Major. Tiger won 14. But would I trade my career for Tigers? No. I started out this game a pretty good golfer and finished in the Hall of Fame.
"I feel I have overachieved. So how could I say I wish it were better? People will say, Well, he didnt win a major.
"And, yes, I would have liked to shut them up by winning one. But thats my only regret, really. Great that I have won senior Majors, which has quieted the odd person.
"Ive made mistakes. We all make mistakes. But Ive had a long career. I dont think Tiger will be out here at 53.
"He might say, I dont need the money. But its not just money. Its self-esteem. Self-esteem is huge in life.
"You walk a wee bit taller, having done something well. I like this life. I like meeting new people. I like the travel. I love the life. Whether its for everybody, I cant say."
And Monty added he hopes Woods could come back - though cast doubt over his chances of ever winning again.
He said: "People talk about being A-list, about moving the needle. Well, he moved the needle.
"It would be good if Tiger could come back and contend. Just contend. Never mind win. Just to contend would be great."