Tiger Woods announced Tuesday that he will step away from golf to seek treatment and focus on his health after being arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence following a rollover crash in Florida last week.
“I know and understand the seriousness of the situation I find myself in today,” Woods wrote on X. “I am stepping away for a period of time to seek treatment and focus on my health. This is necessary in order for me to prioritize my well‑being and work toward lasting recovery.”
The 50‑year‑old was driving his Land Rover near his Jupiter Island home last Friday when it clipped a pickup truck and rolled onto its side. No one was reported injured. Woods exited the vehicle through the passenger door, and officers at the scene said he appeared impaired. They also reported finding two opioid pain pills in his pocket.
Woods faces charges of suspicion of misdemeanor DUI with property damage and refusing to submit to a lawful test. A breathalyzer detected no alcohol, and he declined urine testing. He was released on bail the night of the crash.
Martin County court records show Woods entered a written plea of not guilty and planned to waive an April 23 arraignment. A 15‑time major champion often regarded as one of the greatest golfers of his generation, Woods said he will take the time needed to return “in a healthier, stronger, and more focused place, both personally and professionally.”
His decision to step away means he will miss the Masters for a second straight year; the five‑time champion had been expected by fans to compete at Augusta National during the April 9–12 tournament. He had recently returned to competition at the indoor TGL Finals, an event that combines simulated and traditional golf formats.
This is not the first time Woods has taken an extended break following an accident. In 2009 he stepped away after a crash outside his Orlando‑area home. A 2021 single‑vehicle collision in Los Angeles caused severe damage to his right leg and required extensive surgery, with doctors at one point considering amputation.
A police report provided further detail about the circumstances of last week’s stop. During field sobriety testing, officers observed Woods limping and wearing a compression sock on his right knee; he told them he has had more than 20 surgeries on that leg and that his ankle can seize up. Woods told investigators he had been looking at his phone and changing radio stations and did not notice the pickup ahead had slowed. Officers described him as lethargic, slow to respond, sweating heavily, with bloodshot eyes, extremely dilated pupils and hiccuping during questioning.
Editor: Srinivas Mazumdaru