Federer backs repentant Woods

Roger Federer has pledged unflinching support to embattled fellow world number one Tiger Woods and believes "the worst has passed" for the golfer.

Woods last week fought back tears as he issued a full and frank apology for cheating on his wife but stopped short of announcing when he will return to golf.

"Tiger is a good friend of mine," tennis number one Federer said in The Gulf News.

"What's happened to him has been hard to watch over the last three months right down to when he made his apology. I am sure he's headed in a better direction now. The worst has passed.

"I hope that he can also work things out with his wife Elin because they are very nice people - obviously for the sake of their kids as well."

Federer has not spoken to Woods since the November car crash which preceded the revelations about his private life, but insists they remain friends.

"I have supported him, but I haven't had any contact with him," added the Swiss star, who was forced to withdraw from this week's Dubai Tennis Championship due to a lung infection.

"He has been where he knows he has been (in therapy) but my support does not change. I wish him the best.

"It's been hard to watch from far away but I would love to see him back on the golf course. It is what he does best."