The day Ali punched Tiger

Golfing superstar Tiger Woods has recounted the time he took a punch in the ribs from boxing legend Muhammad Ali. Ali was in his 60s at the time but still packed some power to the ‘‘love tap’’, according to Woods who was checking into a New York hotel as he prepared for the 2004 US Open at Shinnecock Hills. Annoyed, Woods admitted he almost hit back until he realised who he was up against. ‘‘ I’m checking in and am in line at the front desk and I get hit in the ribs, my right ribs.

And it hurt. And I whip around and I’m thinking I’m just going to hit somebody. I was so pissed. I look around and it’s Muhammad Ali.

‘‘He said ‘Hey kid, how are you?’ I said, ‘Why did you have to give me a love tap that hard?’ ‘‘He was old but it still hurt. And I just can’t imagine being hit in a ring for 15 rounds like they used to fight back in the day. It’s just crazy.’’

New Wallabies coach Dave Rennie has reaffirmed his commitment to the role despite ‘‘disappointment’’ over the departure of chief executive Raelene Castle. Rennie is due to become the latest Kiwi coach to take the Wallabies reins once he finishes his commitments with the Glasgow Warriors in Scotland amid the uncertain sporting landscape cast by the

Covid-19 global pandemic.

However, following the forced resignation of fellow Kiwi Castle, on the back of a concerted attack from 11 former Wallabies captains who demanded change at the top , there had been speculation Rennie might have second thoughts. But Rennie told reporters that despite being disappointed by the ousting of Castle he remained motivated and committed to make his move into the international arena.