In a stunning turn of events that has sent shockwaves through the sports world and beyond, golf legend Tiger Woods erupted into a fiery rant during a live television interview on Sunday evening. The 15-time major champion, known for his composure on the green, lost his cool while appearing on ESPN’s “SportsCenter” to discuss his latest comeback from injury.

Instead of talking tee shots and birdies, Woods veered off-script, launching a scathing attack on the emerging hybrid sport of “FootGolf,” accusing it of being a covert vehicle for promoting progressive political messages, including support for LGBT movements, at the expense of traditional American values.

The outburst, which lasted nearly five minutes before producers cut to a commercial break, has since gone viral, amassing over 50 million views across social media platforms in less than 24 hours. Clips of Woods’ red-faced tirade are circulating on X (formerly Twitter), TikTok, and YouTube, with hashtags like #TigerRant, #UnfollowFootGolf, and #WoodsVsWoke trending worldwide. Fans and critics alike are divided, with some praising Woods for “speaking truth to power” and others condemning him for injecting politics into sports.

The Rampage Unfolds

The interview began innocently enough. Host Scott Van Pelt was probing Woods about his thoughts on evolving golf variants, including FootGolf—a game that combines elements of soccer and golf, where players kick a soccer ball into oversized holes on a golf course. FootGolf has gained popularity in recent years, especially among younger demographics, as an accessible, fun alternative to traditional golf. It’s played in over 40 countries and has even been featured in celebrity tournaments.

But when Van Pelt mentioned a recent FootGolf event sponsored by a major athletic brand that included rainbow-themed merchandise in support of Pride Month, Woods’ demeanor shifted dramatically. “Listen, Scott,” Woods began, his voice rising, “this isn’t just about kicking a ball around a course. FootGolf is more than just golf—it’s a Trojan horse. They’re disguising political messages under the guise of a sport. Promoting LGBT agendas, eroding our traditional American values. It’s not about family, it’s not about competition—it’s about pushing an ideology!”

Woods didn’t stop there. He slammed his fist on the desk, demanding that his fans immediately “unfollow FootGolf” on all social media platforms. “If you’re a true golf fan, a true American, you need to wake up,” he shouted. “This sport is staged to brainwash the next generation. Look at the events—they’ve got drag queens as mascots, rainbow flags everywhere. It’s not golf; it’s propaganda! Traditional values are under attack, and I’m not going to stand by silently.”

Van Pelt, visibly stunned, attempted to steer the conversation back, but Woods doubled down. “I’ve seen the videos, the promotions. They’re using kids in these events, teaching them that this is normal. What happened to the America I grew up in? The one where sports were about skill, not sexuality? Unfollow it now—before it’s too late!”

The studio fell silent for a moment before the feed cut abruptly. ESPN issued a statement shortly after, saying, “We respect Tiger Woods’ right to his opinions, but his comments do not reflect the views of ESPN. We apologize to our viewers for any discomfort caused.”

Viral Backlash and Support

The clip exploded online almost immediately. On X, conservative commentators like Tucker Carlson retweeted the video with captions like “Tiger Woods tells it like it is! Time to protect our sports from woke infiltration.” Carlson’s post alone garnered over 2 million likes. Meanwhile, figures from the golf community, such as former PGA Tour player Brandel Chamblee, expressed support, tweeting: “Tiger’s got a point. Sports should unite, not divide with politics.”

On the flip side, LGBTQ+ advocacy groups and progressive voices condemned Woods harshly. GLAAD released a statement calling his remarks “dangerous and outdated,” arguing that inclusivity in sports benefits everyone. “FootGolf, like many modern activities, celebrates diversity,” the statement read. “Accusing it of ‘eroding values’ is code for bigotry. We urge Woods to educate himself and apologize.”

Social media users piled on. One viral TikTok video, with 10 million views, showed a montage of FootGolf events featuring families, athletes of all backgrounds, and yes, some Pride-themed elements, overlaid with Woods’ rant and captions like “Tiger’s Lost His Swing… and His Mind?” Celebrities weighed in too: Ellen DeGeneres posted, “Sports are for everyone. Love is love. Disappointed in you, Tiger.” In contrast, actor Dean Cain, known for his conservative views, defended Woods: “Finally, someone with the guts to call out the nonsense.”

The controversy has even spilled into politics. Republican Senator Ted Cruz referenced the incident in a speech, saying, “Tiger Woods is right—our culture is being hijacked. From golf courses to classrooms, we need to fight back.” Democrats, however, dismissed it as “manufactured outrage,” with Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez tweeting: “A billionaire golfer ranting about a fun game? Priorities, people.”

What Is FootGolf, Anyway?

For those unfamiliar, FootGolf originated in the Netherlands in 2009 and has since spread globally. It’s played on golf courses with modified rules: players use their feet to kick a regulation soccer ball into 21-inch diameter cups, completing 18 holes much like golf but without clubs. The sport emphasizes accessibility—no expensive equipment needed beyond a ball and cleats—and it’s often marketed as family-friendly and inclusive.

Critics of Woods’ claims point out that while some FootGolf events do incorporate social causes, including LGBTQ+ support, the sport itself is apolitical at its core. The American FootGolf League (AFGL), the governing body in the U.S., promotes it as “golf for everyone,” with partnerships ranging from youth programs to corporate team-building. AFGL President Roberto Balestrini responded to Woods’ rant: “We’re saddened by Mr. Woods’ comments. FootGolf is about fun, fitness, and community—not politics. We welcome all players, regardless of background.”

Supporters of Woods’ view, however, argue that the sport’s marketing often aligns with progressive causes. A quick search reveals events like the “Pride FootGolf Classic” in California, which raised funds for LGBTQ+ charities, complete with rainbow attire and inclusive messaging. “It’s not hidden,” one anonymous source from the golf industry told us. “They’re using sports to normalize things that clash with traditional values.”

Woods’ History and Potential Fallout

This isn’t the first time Tiger Woods has courted controversy. The 49-year-old icon has faced personal scandals, including his 2009 infidelity revelations and multiple injuries that derailed his career. More recently, he’s been vocal about cultural issues, endorsing conservative figures and criticizing “woke culture” in interviews. In 2023, he sparked debate by withdrawing from a tournament sponsored by a company with strong DEI (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion) initiatives.

The fallout from this rant could be significant. Sponsors like Nike and TaylorMade, who have long backed Woods, have remained silent so far, but industry insiders speculate potential repercussions. “Tiger’s brand is built on excellence and resilience,” said marketing expert Lisa Hargrove. “But alienating a younger, diverse audience could hurt. FootGolf appeals to millennials and Gen Z—precisely the demo brands want.”

Fan reactions are mixed. At a golf expo in Florida, attendees we spoke to were split: “Tiger’s a legend; he can say what he wants,” said one middle-aged fan. A younger attendee countered: “It’s 2025. Sports evolve. Get with the times.”

Broader Implications for Sports and Society

Woods’ tirade highlights a growing divide in American sports, where politics increasingly intersects with play. From Colin Kaepernick’s kneeling protests to debates over transgender athletes, the arena is no longer just about scores—it’s about societal values. FootGolf, as a niche but rising sport, now finds itself in the crosshairs.

As the video continues to spread, one thing is clear: Tiger Woods’ “rampage” has ignited a national conversation. Whether it leads to boycotts, apologies, or just more memes remains to be seen. For now, the golf world—and beyond—is watching closely.

In the words of Woods himself during the interview: “Unfollow FootGolf. Protect what matters.” But in a polarized America, what “matters” depends on who you ask.