CELEBS/SPORTS/TRUMP AS PRESIDENT: “Donald Trump loves a winner. And Tiger Woods is a winner. The Presidential Medal of Freedom, considered the nation’s highest civilian honor, has traditionally been bestowed on public servants, pioneering astronauts, visionary world leaders, poets and artists. Monday, President Trump said he would award the medal to Woods following his inspiring comeback at the Masters to win his 15th major championship. Woods’ award will be Trump’s eighth Medal of Freedom. While previous presidents have preferred politicians, artists and scientists for the award, half of Trump’s have gone to athletes – revealing a Trump worldview that sees sports as central to American life. Awarding the medal is usually a months-long process to winnow down a long list of potential honorees. Trump made the decision within 24 hours of Woods’ 18th-hole putt to clinch the green jacket for the first time in 14 years. And Trump announced it, characteristically, with a tweet. ‘because of his incredible Success & Comeback in Sports (Golf) and, more importantly, LIFE, I will be presenting him with the PRESIDENTIAL MEDAL OF FREEDOM!’”
–Gregory Korte, “Trump puts his stamp on Presidential Medal of Freedom with few medals, half to athletes,” USA Today, April 17, 2019 6:55 pm