TIGER WOODS has led the tributes following the death of legendary golf writer Steve DiMeglio aged 63.
DiMeglio passed away this week following a battle with rectal cancer that spread to his liver.
He was diagnosed with the disease in 2022 and the golfing world has honoured him since his death.
DiMeglio was close to a number of players on tour and built a good relationship with Woods after first getting to know him in 1996.
Woods paid tribute to his friend, saying: "Unfortunately the golf world lost part of our family today, beloved golf writer Steve DiMeglio.
"I was always very close to Steve and we texted and talked about how he needed to keep fighting to get better so we could see each other in the Bahamas last month. And we did. I am so grateful for that.
"This a very sad day for all of golf. We have truly lost a friend."
DiMeglio most recently wrote for Golfweek but he made his name at USAToday.
The PGA Tour also shared kind words, saying in a statement: "The PGA Tour joins the golf world in mourning the loss of our friend, golf journalist Steve DiMeglio.
"A fixture at TOUR events for nearly two decades and beloved by players, he inspired us all with his unique perspective, humour and love of the game, even in the midst of his recent, arduous battle with cancer.
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"In the words of our friend Steve, 'Onward.'"
four-time PGA Tour winner Billy Andrade said: "Everybody knows him out here. He’s Mr. Golf, USA Today forever.
"One of the great guys of all time."
