Everyone acts differently when under pressure. The tension and frustration of the situation cause people to act differently. But regardless of who the person is, the situation demands some action. Be it handling it calmly or with venom. Tiger Woods, too, has dealt with many such situations in his career. While his course of action is something his father, Earl Woods, stands by, it is not close to how the boxing star Muhammed Ali would handle it.

Both Woods and Ali are legends in their respective sports. They undoubtedly stood united against the racism they faced in their sport, but the paths they took to do so have been different.

Earl Woods praises his son’s use of intellect

In 2002, Earl Woods sat down with Lawrence Donegan from The Guardian. While discussing his life, his son Tiger’s name popped up a lot. In the interview, Woods Sr. also compared Woods to the boxing legend Muhammad Ali. He stated that Ali and the golf pro were completely different when it came to dealing with tense situations like racial comments.

Earl stated that Tiger was from a different generation than Ali and thought differently too. “Ali was a different person. He also did not attend Stanford University,” he said. The military man added that he respected the boxer a lot, but that just wasn’t how his son was. “Ali had his techniques, Tiger has his; intellect, being articulate, understanding, sympathy.”

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When Muhammad Ali Surprised Tiger Woods in a Hotel Lobby

He explained that the 15-time major winner dealt with tense scenarios with a cool mind and with consideration. “Tiger doesn’t have to be out there screaming and hollering at people,” said Earl. The golf pro’s father revealed that he too had suffered from racism, and he “understood where Ali was coming from,” but that his son’s way was more evolved.

What was the incident with Tiger Woods that led to the discussion?

In 1997, Woods won his first major championship at Augusta. His record-breaking 12-stroke lead was the talk of the town back then. Yet many didn’t respect Woods. Fuzzy Zoeller, a two-time major championship winner, was among them. He publicly abused Woods too while talking about the Masters winner’s right to pick the victory dinner menu.

Soon after Woods’ win, the 10-time PGA Tour victor was asked what he thought about it. “That little boy is driving well and putting well,” he said before insulting Woods’ race. “You pat him on the back and say congratulations and tell him not serve fried chicken, or collard greens or whatever the hell they serve.”

Watch this story: Tiger Woods’ Father Earl Woods Once Got Emotional While Expressing Pride for His Son’s Impact in the World

While Tiger didn’t scale the situation, the writer argues that Muhammad Ali wouldn’t knock down Zoeller right there. Earl, of course, sided with his beloved son. But who do you think was right?