Tiger Woods says ‘nothing’s changed’ on course, still expects to win Masters after scandal

Tiger says he expects to win the Masters

AUGUSTA, Ga. — Tiger Woods says “nothing’s changed” on the golf course and he still expects to win the Masters in his return to competition after a devastating personal scandal.

Tiger Woods began his comeback with an extraordinary 35-minute news conference at Augusta National on Monday, taking full blame for the personal failings that led to revelations of multiple extramarital affairs.

Woods refused to say why he spent 45 days in rehabilitation, but says he intends to continue with his treatment. He also said he received five stitches in his mouth after the infamous Thanksgiving night car crash outside his home, but stressed that he’s not addicted to prescription drugs.

While his wife, Elin, won’t be joining him at Augusta, Woods still believes he can win his fifth green jacket after a five-month layoff.

THIS IS A BREAKING NEWS UPDATE. Check back soon for further information. AP’s earlier story is below.

AUGUSTA, Ga. (AP) — Saying the reception of the Augusta National fans “blew me away,” Tiger Woods began his comeback from a devastating personal scandal Monday by refusing to say why he entered rehab but stressing that he wasn’t addicted to prescription drugs.

Woods also said that that he had five stitches in his mouth after the infamous Thanksgiving night car crash that led to revelations of a sordid private life. He said that his wife, Elin, would not be with him at the Masters.

Woods said he made “some incredibly bad decisions” and “hurt so many people.” He again said that he takes all the blame for allowing his life to fall apart.

He said he expects to win the Masters.