CNN Sport had the privilege of speaking with Cheyenne Woods about the diversity in golf, female athletes and how she is slowly emerging from her uncle's shadow. She is participating for the third time in the LPGA Tour (Ladies Professional Golf Association), and thus hopes to represent and inspire other black women.

Interview Cheyenne Woods, niece of Tiger Woods, on CNN Sport

Cheyenne Woods - Photo: DR

Only eight African American women have competed on the LPGA Tour since its inception 70 years ago, and yet none have won the women's course yet. A situation that Cheyenne would like to change ...

A source of inspiration

While attending an event in the Wilshire Country of Los Angeles, Cheyenne Woods was introduced to a family who had come to see her. Although the family had never played golf before or even attended a sporting event, they were fascinated by the golfer. She explained that “It was a black family that was out, there was a girl and a boy… They had never played golf, but had heard of me and came to encourage me. It gave me wings! "

The need for diversity in the world of golf

“I think it's important for me to be present on the Tour in order to show that it's possible. That's what Tiger Woods, people like Serena Williams and even players on the WNBA basketball team have always taught me… When you are little and you watch competitions on TV if you can't. to feel a link with at least one of the sportsmen then obviously that seems unattainable to you. This is how I experienced it. When you find someone you can relate to, you are bound to say to yourself "I can do this too". If I can be that person to relate to, that's a good thing. Or even if I encourage people to take an interest in golf it's even better. "

His next goals

“Many actions carried out by various collectives or Tiger Wood have contributed to making golf more accessible. In the future, there will definitely be [an African American LPGA winner], whether it's me or Mariah Stackhouse. "

The need to give the opportunity to see women play

"We must give visibility to women, we must be able to admire their technique and their talent. At the very least, supporters should have the opportunity to watch female golfers. Women have more and more time on the air every year, but it is not always in prime time if we compare to men and that makes the difference. If people could watch and enjoy competitions that would be a good start. "

The wage gap between men and women among athletes

“It's inspiring to see women like Serena being the best in their field and being so successful. I think she really embodies daring, but I think some issues like equal pay persist and need to be addressed. "

His relationship with Tiger Woods

“With the career Tiger has had, his injuries, his comeback… there is always something to say about him, which is understandable. One of my biggest frustrations in my career is having always been known as a loved one and not for who I really am. But now I feel like I really have an identity whether it's in the headlines or not. "

The influence of his uncle

“He was a real source of inspiration for me… Since I was a professional golfer, he has always been by my side to help me whether it is with a series of misses or simply because I needed investment advice. He trained me really well. It is difficult to be a professional golfer and he succeeds. In my family no one plays golf except him. When I need someone to help me improve, they are always there for me. "

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