Golf icon Tiger Woods has announced he is stepping away from the public eye to seek treatment following his arrest last week on driving under the influence charges.
The 15-time major champion, 50, broke his silence Tuesday with a statement posted on X, acknowledging the gravity of his situation just days after being taken into custody in Florida.
“I know and understand the seriousness of the situation I find myself in today,” Woods said. “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 arrest occurred last Friday when Woods crashed his sport utility vehicle into a trailer being pulled by a pickup truck near his home on Jupiter Island. According to the Martin County Sheriff’s Office accident report, Woods told officers he had been looking down at his cell phone and changing the radio station when he failed to notice the vehicle ahead slowing down.
Deputies at the scene noted that Woods appeared impaired. The report described his eyes as “bloodshot and glassy,” his movements as “lethargic and slow,” and noted he was “limping and stumbling to the right” while walking. Officers also found two hydrocodone pills, an opioid painkiller, in his possession.
A breathalyzer test showed no alcohol in his system, but Woods refused to submit to urine tests. He was subsequently charged with misdemeanor DUI with property damage and refusing to submit to a lawful test.
Woods posted bond and was released from jail later that night. He has since entered a not guilty plea in Martin Circuit Court, waived a planned arraignment, and requested a jury trial.
Neither Woods nor the driver of the pickup truck was injured in the crash, though Woods’ vehicle rolled onto its side, forcing him to exit through the passenger door.
The golf legend has a long history of significant injuries. He underwent emergency surgery for multiple compound fractures in his right leg and a shattered ankle following a single-car crash in California in 2021. He has also had seven back surgeries and over 20 operations on his leg, according to the arrest report.
Woods 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. Just last week, he participated in a TGL simulator indoor golf event and had spoken about a possible return at the upcoming Masters tournament.
Next week, Woods had been scheduled to attend the Champions Dinner at Augusta National ahead of the 90th Masters. His current treatment plan will now impact those plans.
“I’m committed to taking the time needed to return in a healthier, stronger, and more focused place, both personally and professionally,” Woods said in his statement. “I appreciate your understanding and support, and ask for privacy for my family, loved ones and myself at this time.”
