WASHINGTON, Aug 23: Tiger Woods and wife Elin Nordegren divorced on Monday after their six-year marriage succumbed to the massive sex scandal that enveloped the world's number one golfer, a joint statement said.

“We are sad that our marriage is over and we wish each other the very best for the future,” the statement said.

“While we are no longer married, we are the parents of two wonderful children and their happiness has been, and will always be, of paramount importance to both of us.

”Once we came to the decision that our marriage was at an end, the primary focus of our amicable discussions has been to ensure their future well-being,” it said.

“The weeks and months ahead will not be easy for them as we adjust to a new family situation, which is why our privacy must be a principal concern.”

Nordegren's lawyer said no information about the terms of their settlement would be released amid reports that Elin, 30 could receive anywhere between 100 million and 500 million dollars in assets. People Magazine said the couple had agreed to share custody of their two children, Sam Alexis, 3, and Charlie Axel, 1.

A Nov 27 car crash near Woods's home touched off a global scandal, leading to his admission of adultery and putting his golf career on hold while he fought his own personal demons.

He took a break from the game for several months and received therapy at a sex clinic before returning in March for the first major of the year, the US Masters at the Augusta National Golf Club in March.

Woods didn't win but came in fourth as he returned in a comfortable setting where he has captured four titles, his first in 1997 being the first major crown won by a black golfer.—AFP