AUGUSTA, Ga. -- Golf Channel’s Kelly Tilghman reported yesterday that Condoleezza Rice, the former secretary of state, might be in line for a gig with the PGA Tour. What role Rice would fill is unknown, but as the Tour continues to globalize, there's no doubt it could put Rice's Rolodex to good use. (She's pictured here with PGA Tour Commissioner Tim Finchem.)

This is not the first time Rice has been approached for a job with a major sports organization. She has talked about her interest in being commissioner of the NFL, and earlier this year, according to the Seattle Times, Rice had discussions with the Pac-10 about becoming its commissioner.

"She was approached and she was flattered, but she declined this opportunity to pursue her teaching at Stanford and her pursuit of educational initiatives and the books that she has chosen to write,'' said Colby Cooper, a spokesman for Rice.

Rice has been playing golf for nearly four years and takes lessons at Andrews Air Force Base, according to the Washington Post. In 2007, she attended the AT&T National, where she had lunch with Tiger Woods and took in some of the action on the course.

She followed Phil Mickelson's group for a couple of holes, then caught up with him again on the 18th green. She applauded enthusiastically when Brad Faxon's long putt nearly went in, then cringed when Adam Scott sent his chip over the green and into the water.

Faxon and Mickelson were at the White House on Wednesday with Rice to watch the fireworks. At the scoring tent, Faxon gave Rice a hug.

"Secretary Rice, it's nice to see you again," said Mickelson, who also hugged the secretary of state. "Enjoyed you coming out today."

If the rumors are true, Phil should expect to see a lot more of her.

Photo:  David Cannon/Getty Images