Former world No. 1 golfer Tiger Woods insists he is trying to show more appreciation for his fans, Sky Sports reported Monday.
Woods has often been accused of not signing enough autographs and was criticized in Dubai recently for seemingly walking away from spectators seeking his signature.
But the 14-time major winner, who was also fined by the European Tour for spitting on the 12th green during his final round in Dubai, said the pictures did not tell the whole story.
"I sign a lot," Woods told Sky Sports. "Sometimes I do not sign where the cameras are.
"There was an instance in Dubai when I did not sign because a couple of kids were getting crushed. They were hurt, one of the kids was bleeding and I left.
"The cameras were there and they showed it. I did not sign on that spot, I went and signed somewhere else, and I was criticized for it. I was criticized for not signing."
Woods, who is gearing up to play at this weekend's Arnold Palmer Invitational in Orlando, said he wanted to thank fans for their support during the most turbulent period of his career.
The 35-year-old is in the midst of a slump that has seen him go winless in 17 events over 16 months since a sex scandal led to the end of his marriage and much of his endorsement riches.
"Am I signing a lot more? Absolutely," Woods added. "I am so much more grateful for my fans and how they have helped me and I am trying to show more appreciation."
