The world number one told his official website that he felt women should be admitted to the home of The Masters.

"Everyone has to understand that Augusta isn't quick to change things," said Woods.

"No matter what I or the press say, they do things at their own pace, such as allowing the first black golfer to play or join the club, and won't buckle to outside pressure.

"Would I like to see women members? Yes, that would be great, but I am only one voice.

"I'm not even a regular member, I'm an honorary member, and it's going to take a lot more than me, a women's group or the media for Augusta to alter its policy."

In a statement, Johnson vigorously defended the club's right to decide on its own membership.

"The notion that Augusta is an enclave of sexist good old boys is ludicrous.

"Women regularly play the course, with no restrictions.

"Whether, or when, we have women as members is something that this club will decide alone, and in private."

In August, US Masters organisers announced that there would be no commercials in the television coverage for next year's event.

They said they were concerned that firms advertising during the broadcast could become targets for women's groups