Former Employee Criticizes Tiger Woods for Poor Treatment After Career Support

Hughes Norton, who played a key role in developing Tiger Woods into a global golf superstar and secured him lucrative endorsement deals with Nike and Titleist before he turned pro, has revealed how Woods treated him poorly in later years.

Norton, a prominent figure in golf’s management scene, also worked with Greg Norman. While Norman eventually dismissed him, Norton notes Norman’s loyalty contrasted with his experience with Woods.

“At Least Norman Was Loyal”

On the SubPar podcast, Norton discussed how Woods abruptly fired him over the phone after two years, without acknowledging his early contributions to Woods’ career.

“And for him, 24 months in, to fire me over the phone is just still inexplicable,” Norton expressed. “I’ve never spoken to him since, and he’s never responded to me. Unfortunately, he tends to do this with many people in his life,” he added.

Norton contrasted this experience with Norman, stating, “At least he was loyal throughout the period we worked together and appreciated the effort we put in.”

Other former associates have also spoken openly about their difficult relationships with Woods. Hank Haney, a former swing coach, described his time working with Woods as “always… dysfunctional.”