Scandal-hit American golfing superstar Tiger Woods has been named Athlete of the Decade by the Associated Press (AP).

The honour would have been another jewel in the King of Golf's crown, but at the time when he is under intense media scrutiny since being involved in a car accident on November 27 and later admitting transgressions in a statement that apparently addressed allegations he cheated on his wife, the award may come as an embarrassment.