Miami (AFP) – Authorities in Florida released the body camera video of Tiger Woods being arrested on Thursday following a rollover car crash last week that led to him stepping away from golf to seek treatment. In the footage released by the Martin County Sheriff’s Office, Woods tells authorities he was looking at his phone when he struck the trailer of another vehicle.
“I looked down at my phone and all of a sudden, boom,” Woods said. The 50-year-old winner of 15 major titles and a PGA Tour record-tying 82 events is shown taking a sobriety test and being handcuffed after that. “At this time, I do believe your normal faculties are impaired,” a deputy told Woods. “And you’re under an unknown substance, so at this time you are under arrest for DUI.”
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Police found two hydrocodone painkiller pills on Woods when he was arrested. Woods told deputies he had taken “a few” prescription medications earlier in the day and mentioned he had undergone seven back operations and more than 20 surgeries on his right leg, according to the arrest report. Woods has pleaded not guilty to driving under the influence. He was also charged with refusing to take a urinalysis test.
Woods, who had been hoping to play in next week’s Masters, said he planned to step away from golf and was granted permission to leave the United States in order to undergo treatment. “I know and understand the seriousness of the situation I find myself in,” Woods said in a statement. “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. I’m committed to taking the time needed to return in a healthier, stronger and more focused place, both personally and professionally.”
The PGA of America has announced Woods will not serve as captain of the 2027 US Ryder Cup team. The Masters, PGA of America, and PGA Tour all issued statements supporting Woods and his decision to seek treatment. Woods suffered severe injuries in a 2021 car crash in California but returned to competition at the 2022 Masters and finished 47th despite struggling to walk 72 holes at Augusta National. He has not competed in a PGA Tour-level event since missing the cut at the 2024 British Open.
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