NEW YORK— Tiger Woods takes a swing at getting out of the rough with a much-awaited TV confessional, telecast around the world.

Dozens of broadcast networks, cable news outlets and online streams carried his scripted statement live on Friday, allowing a global audience to see and hear from Woods for the first time since his public image went into free fall nearly three months ago.

Viewers by the millions paused to watch the golf great's 13 1/2-minute video apology for his sex escapades. Meanwhile, news anchors, TV pundits and morning show hosts sat ready to pounce with their reactions.

Wood's message, replayed over and over, was sure to keep the issue going. But initially, it was anything but clear whether he had made his case, or just managed to make a major media splash. (AP)