Miami (AFP) – Golf superstar Tiger Woods said Tuesday he was “stepping away” to seek treatment and focus on his health after his arrest last week in Florida for driving under the influence. Woods crashed his SUV into a trailer being pulled by a pickup truck near his Jupiter Island home last Friday. The 15-time major champion was assessed to be impaired by officers at the scene and had opioid painkillers with him, but he has pleaded not guilty to DUI charges, telling authorities he was looking at his phone and changing radio channels.
“I know and understand the seriousness of the situation I find myself in today,” said Woods in a statement Tuesday. “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.” Woods, 50, had previously suffered severe leg injuries in a 2021 single-car crash in California. During the latest accident, Woods rolled his vehicle onto its side and was forced to exit from the passenger’s side door. Neither he nor the truck driver were injured.
Related news
Woods was charged with suspicion of misdemeanor DUI with property damage and refusing to submit to a lawful test when he would not submit to urine tests after a breathalyzer test showed no alcohol in his system. Woods posted bond and was released from the Martin County jail on Friday night. He entered a not guilty plea in Martin Circuit Court, waived a planned arraignment, and has demanded a jury trial in the matter.
In the accident report from the Martin County Sheriff’s Office, authorities said Woods “stated he was looking down at his cell phone and changing the radio station and did not notice the vehicle in front of him had slowed down.” Sheriff’s deputies observed in the report that Woods was “sweating profusely” and described his movements as “lethargic and slow,” noting his eyes were “bloodshot and glassy” and he was “limping and stumbling to the right” while walking. Police said in the report that Woods was found with two hydrocodone pills, an opioid painkiller, and appeared unable to safely drive a vehicle when he was apprehended.
Asked about his medical condition, the report said, “Woods advised he’s had seven back surgeries and over 20 operations on his leg…Woods advised he has a limp and his ankle seizes while walking.” Woods underwent emergency surgery for multiple compound fractures in his right leg and a shattered ankle following his California crash in 2021. He returned to competition at the 2022 Masters and finished 47th despite struggling simply to walk 72 holes at Augusta National.
Next week, Woods is scheduled to attend the Champions Dinner at Augusta National ahead of the 90th Masters. He has not competed in a top-level golf event since the 2024 British Open. He suffered a ruptured left Achilles tendon in March 2025 and underwent back surgery last October. Last week, he took part in a TGL simulator indoor golf event and had talked about a possible return at the Masters.
“I’m committed to taking the time needed to return in a healthier, stronger, and more focused place, both personally and professionally,” wrote Woods on Tuesday. “I appreciate your understanding and support, and ask for privacy for my family, loved ones, and myself at this time.”
© 2024 AFP
