Tiger Woods is taking an indefinite break from professional golf to tackle problems in his private life.

In a statement on his website, he said he was aware of the disappointment "my infidelity" had caused to his family.

The world's top golfer said he wanted to "try to repair the damage done" and asked for privacy, the BBC reported.

His biggest sponsor, Nike, said it would continue to stand by him but Woods's agent said it was too early to discuss any other business deals.

On his website, Woods said he was "profoundly sorry" and asked for forgiveness.

The 33-year-old said: "I would like to ask everyone, including my fans, the good people at my foundation, business partners, the PGA Tour, and my fellow competitors, for their understanding.”

Speculation about his private life has been intense since he was involved in a car crash outside his Florida home two weeks ago. Newspaper allegations followed about extra-marital affairs.

Woods has been married to his wife Elin for five years and they have a two-year-old daughter and 10-month-old son.

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