THOUSAND OAKS, Calif. — Tiger Woods said he was disappointed by his caddie's disparaging comments about Phil Mickelson in New Zealand newspapers.

Steve Williams was quoted in the Taranki Daily News as saying he wouldn't call Mickelson a great player "because I think he's a (expletive)." When contacted by another New Zealand newspaper, Williams confirmed making the comment.

"I was disappointed to read the comments attributed to Steve Williams about Phil Mickelson, a player that I respect," Woods said in a statement Monday. "It was inappropriate. The matter has been discussed and dealt with."

Williams began working with Woods in the spring of 1999 and has been on his bag for 13 of his 14 majors.

Mickelson's management company issued a statement Sunday evening to respond to what it called "grossly inaccurate and irresponsible statements" by Williams. It included a comment from Mickelson.

"After seeing Steve Williams' comments, all I could think of was how lucky I am to have a class act like Bones (Jim Mackay) on my bag and representing me," Mickelson said.