Donald Trump and Tiger Woods are good friends (Image: GETTY) Immediately after announcing he would honour Tiger Woods with the medal of honour, critics opened up with a cascade of complaints. Trump said he was honouring the golf great, “because of his incredible success and comeback in sports, and more importantly, life”. But it was pointed out last week Mr Woods was reported in 2018 to be a business partner with the Trump Organisation. Related articles Tiger Woods reveals what he said in text to close friend after Masters How much longer will Woods be able to compete? McIlroy gives verdict Common Cause legislative affairs director Aaron Scherb told The New York Times Trump is “willing to use any tool of government to benefit his business and political allies”. Rick Reilly, the author of 'Commander in Cheat: How Golf Explains Trump', told The New York Times Woods accepting the Presidential Medal of Freedom “puts a big stain” on the golfer. Mr Reilly shared the same sentiment soon after it was announced last month Woods would be given the nation's highest civilian honour. He said: “How can Tiger Woods accept the Presidential Medal of Freedom from a man who thinks golf should only be for the rich? READ MORE:Tiger Woods Masters 2019: The MASSIVE sum Tiger Woods won Donald Trump and Tiger Woods were joined by their families (Image: GETTY) “Where you aspire to join a club someday, you want to play, so you go out and become successful. “If that were true, there'd be no Tiger Woods.” Woods has been lambasted over his link with Trump since the business mogul was elected president in November 2016. The pair had been golfing partners for years before Trump entered politics. In August 2018, when asked about his relationship with Trump, Woods urged people to respect the office of the president. Woods said: “Well, I’ve known Donald for a number of years. Related articles Tiger woods girlfriend: The driving force behind Masters 2019 win Tiger Woods: Lewis Hamilton desperate for movie after Masters win Donald Trump bestowed the medal on Tiger Woods (Image: GETTY) “We've played golf together and had dinner together. “I’ve known him pre-presidency and obviously during his presidency.” At the ceremony the five times Masters winner received a standing ovation and President Trump said: ”Congratulations again on your amazing comeback and your amazing life and for giving sports fans everywhere a lifetime of memories.” Tiger Woods replied: "This has been an unbelievable experience.” The golfing great then thanked his family, including his late father.All rights reserved for this news site express.co.uk and under his responsibility