Editorial: What is there to believe?

Forgive, yes. But believe?

Tiger Woods finally came out of hiding yesterday to hold a sort-of news conference (there were a few reporters, but no questions) in which he admitted what had been known for months - he cheated on his wife.

That millions of people took a break from what they were doing to watch Woods on TV or the Internet again showed that his story matters to much more than the world of professional golf, where he is still the undeniable king.

Woods' scandal became known after a car wreck last November left him with suspicious injuries. There was speculation that his wife, Elin, had attacked him after finding out he was having affairs. He said she never hit him. But he admitted his numerous affairs.

Now, after going through 45 days of sexual-addiction treatment, Woods is asking for forgiveness from his family, friends, employees, business partners who are losing lots of money while he is on hiatus, his charitable foundation, and anyone else who has been offended by his escapades.

But he wants more than forgiveness. This is how Woods ended his statement: "Finally, there are many people in this room, and there are many people at home, who believed in me. Today I want to ask for your help; I ask you to find room in your heart to one day believe in me again."

Whew, that's a tall order. Believe in what? The squeaky-clean Tiger Woods whom people believed in does not exist. All that's left is the two-faced, womanizing, narcissist Tiger Woods who is working hard to become a better person. He's like so many other pro athletes who were caught in a lie.

Some redeem themselves. Others continue with lavish, lascivious lifestyles best exemplified by Woods' former road dog, Charles Barkley, who long ago advised America that "I am not a role model." Remember Barkley's DUI arrest about a year ago after telling Arizona police he ran a stop sign because he was in a hurry to hook up with a prostitute.

But Barkley was a heck of a basketball player in his day, and that sport is where he should have meaning to people. Just as Woods should be meaningful for what he has done and will do in professional golf. People shouldn't believe in anything about Woods other than his superior golfing skills.

He's not a proper role model.

Tiger did seem genuine in expressing remorse and wanting to get on with his life, save his marriage, and reunite with his children. Here's wishing him success with that, and with continuing a fine career. But, please, don't ask people to believe in what never was.