The Loop

Opinions vary on Tiger's fine for spitting

February 14, 2011

The European Tour announced it will fine Tiger Woods for spitting during the final round of the Dubai Desert Classic. The incident took place on the 12th green while Woods was lining up a putt after missing a par attempt. Here is the video:

According to the Associated Press, the tour didn't disclose the amount of the fine, but issued a statement saying "there has been a breach" of conduct. Woods shot a disappointing 75 on Sunday to finish T-20.

On the other side of the world, TV cameras caught final-round leader Steve Marino spit after hitting his tee shot on Pebble Beach's 15th hole during the AT&T. Not surprisingly, that occurrence hasn't garnered the same attention.

So, we are left with several questions: Should Woods have been fined? Is Tiger being unfairly targeted? Is there a difference between spitting on the green versus doing it on the tee box or another part of the course? Should spitting be outlawed altogether in golf? Is this matter even worth discussing?

We'd love to hear your opinions.

__Update:__Woods has apologized via his Twitter account, @TigerWoods: "The Euro Tour is right - it was inconsiderate to spit like that and I know better. Just wasn't thinking and want to say I'm sorry."

-- Alex Myers

Follow on Twitter: @AlexMyers3