Michael Phelps expresses sympathy for Tiger Woods, family

Swimmer Michael Phelps has expressed sympathy for Tiger Woods and his family after the exposure of the golfer's extra-marital affairs.

The Olympic gold medallist, who was criticised after being photographed smoking pot last year, said that it is unimaginable what Woods must be going through.

"He's going through a hard time right now I assume - I've no idea what he is going through - but it can't be easy, I just wish him the best for himself and his family,'' the Herald Sun quoted him as saying.

He said: "I'd be the first to admit I've made a lot of mistakes both in and out of the pool.

"Of the mistakes I've made I've never made the same mistake again. I've become a much stronger person and I've helped other people not make the same mistakes.

Also, National Basketball Association star Ron Artes, who had a child with another woman outside his marriage, has shown support for Woods in an open letter on his website.

He wrote: "Please, everyone support Tiger in these tough times for his family. You have been the perfect role model for me and my sons for longer than anyone I have known.

"I have made the same mistakes. My wife is a much better wife than I am a husband. We still argue and disagree after being together 16 years.

"I still cope with the fact that there are so many women out there and I choose to stay loyal to my wife. I want to be home every night, but with travelling I can't, and sometimes I might want to go to a bar or club and be one of the fellas. Most of the time I stay in, because I have my kids and wife.

"I cannot sit here and say the thought to have many women has never crossed my mind.''