Exclusive: Tiger Woods’ former agent opens up on ‘worst part’ of relationship with golfer

Hughes Norton, the once-esteemed agent of golfing legend Tiger Woods, breaks his silence after decades of secrecy, shedding light on the enigmatic persona of the 15-time major winner. In his recently-released memoir, ‘Rainmaker’, Norton delves deep into his tumultuous two-year tenure with Woods, offering unprecedented revelations about the superstar’s personality and tumultuous relationships.

Their professional liaison commenced in the summer of 1996, as Woods embarked on his journey as a professional golfer at the tender age of 20. Norton’s association with Woods began even earlier, seven years prior, when he employed Woods’ father, Earl, as a junior talent scout at IMG. Norton’s illustrious career boasted an impressive clientele, including the likes of Greg Norman, whom he represented for 11 years.

During their brief yet impactful collaboration, Norton orchestrated record-setting sponsorship deals for Woods, catapulting him into the realm of sports superstardom. However, their partnership was abruptly severed, leaving Norton bewildered and disillusioned. Reflecting on the abrupt termination, Norton laments the lack of closure and communication from Woods, highlighting a pattern of abrupt relationship severances characteristic of the golf prodigy.

Norton’s candid narrative paints a portrait of Woods as a fiercely driven yet emotionally distant individual, singularly focused on his pursuit of golfing greatness. Describing Woods as “unbelievably self-centred,” Norton reveals a profound lack of empathy and interpersonal skills in the golfing phenom, attributing it to his relentless pursuit of perfection on the golf course.

The pivotal moment of their estrangement occurred when Woods, devoid of emotion, delivered the news of their professional split, leaving Norton feeling betrayed and bewildered. Despite his substantial payoff and a decade-long vow of silence, Norton’s memoir serves as a cathartic release, allowing him to confront the lingering feelings of betrayal and disillusionment.

Moreover, Norton offers intriguing insights into Woods’ discomfort with fame, recounting instances where the golfer expressed disdain for the trappings of success and material wealth. Woods’ ambivalence towards fame, juxtaposed with his unwavering dedication to his craft, adds layers of complexity to his persona, inviting readers to ponder the true motivations driving one of golf’s most iconic figures.

In conclusion, ‘Rainmaker’ stands as a riveting exposé of the complexities underlying Tiger Woods’ meteoric rise to fame and the turbulent relationships that defined his early career. Norton’s candid revelations offer a rare glimpse into the psyche of a sporting legend, inviting readers on a compelling journey through the highs and lows of one of golf’s most captivating figures.