WASHINGTON, Dec. 11 (Xinhua) -- The scandal-tainted golf superstar Tiger Woods said on Friday that he will take an "indefinite" leave from professional golf to spend more time to save his family.

    "I am deeply aware of the disappointment and hurt that my infidelity has caused to so many people, most of all my wife and children. I want to say again to everyone that I am profoundly sorry and that I ask forgiveness. It may not be possible to repair the damage I've done, but I want to do my best to try," Woods said in a statement posted on his website.

    The golfer asked everyone, including his fans, for understanding and respect to his family's privacy so that he and his family have "the time, privacy, and safe haven" needed for personal healing.

U.S. team member Tiger Woods watches his tee shot on the third hole during his singles match at the Presidents Cup golf tournament at Harding Park golf course in San Francisco, California October 11, 2009.

    "After much soul searching, I have decided to take an indefinite break from professional golf. I need to focus my attention on being a better husband, father, and person," he said.

    Woods did not specify how long the planned break would be.

    The golf superstar has been entangled in a number of infidelity scandals after a recent car accident.