Tiger Woods said on Friday night that he was taking an "indefinite break" from golf as he admitted for the first time being unfaithful to his wife and asked for forgiveness.
Woods said he was aware of the disappointment that "my infidelity" has caused to his wife and children.
He said he might not be able to repair the damage, but that he wants to try.
He did not disclose late on Friday how long his break would last. He again asked for privacy, saying that his family would need a "safe haven" to try to heal.
The announcement came two weeks after a car accident that set in motion a shocking downfall for the world's No 1 player, which has included sordid allegations of numerous extramarital affairs.
Tiger Woods and his wife, Elin, have been married for five years and have a two-year-old daughter and 10-month-old son.
"I am deeply aware of the disappointment and hurt that my infidelity has caused to so many people, most of all my wife and children," Woods said in a statement posted on his website.
"I want to say again to everyone that I am profoundly sorry and that I ask forgiveness.
"It may not be possible to repair the damage I've done, but I want to do my best to try.
"After much soul searching, I have decided to take an indefinite break from professional golf.
"I need to focus my attention on being a better husband, father and person.
"I would like to ask everyone, including my fans, the good people at my foundation, business partners, the PGA Tour, and my fellow competitors, for their understanding."
Woods also called for an end to the media frenzy that has engulfed him since the car crash.
"What's most important now is that my family has the time, privacy, and safe haven we will need for personal healing," he said.
"Again, I ask for privacy for my family and I am especially grateful for all those who have offered compassion and concern during this difficult period."
The US PGA Tour said it supported the decision by its biggest star.
"His priorities are where they need to be, and we will continue to respect and honor his family's request for privacy," tour commissioner Tim Finchem said in a statement, the tour's first public comment since Woods mentioned his "personal failings" on Dec 2.
"We look forward to Tiger's return to the PGA Tour when he determines the time is right for him."
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