Golf legend Tiger Woods announces a break to seek treatment following his Florida DUI arrest, as court documents reveal details of the crash and his impaired state.
TIGER Woods is stepping away from golf to focus on his health and seek treatment following his arrest for driving under the influence in Florida last week.
The 15-time major champion announced his decision in a statement on Tuesday, acknowledging the seriousness of his situation.
“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.”
Woods crashed his SUV into a trailer near his Jupiter Island home last Friday, rolling the vehicle onto its side. He pleaded not guilty to misdemeanor DUI charges, telling authorities he was distracted by his phone and the radio.
A sheriff’s office report described Woods as “sweating profusely” with movements that were “lethargic and slow.” Deputies noted his eyes were “bloodshot and glassy” and that he was “limping and stumbling” when walking.
The report stated Woods was found with two hydrocodone pills, an opioid painkiller, and appeared unable to drive safely. He refused to submit to a urine test after a breathalyzer showed no alcohol in his system.
Woods, 50, has a long history of severe injuries, including multiple back surgeries and leg operations following a 2021 single-car crash in California. He told deputies at the scene he has had “seven back surgeries and over 20 operations on my leg.”
He posted bond and was released from jail on Friday night, subsequently waiving his arraignment and demanding a jury trial. Neither he nor the truck driver he hit were injured in the collision.
Woods has not competed in a top-level event since the 2024 British Open, having suffered a ruptured Achilles tendon in 2025 and undergone back surgery last October. He recently participated in a simulator golf event and had discussed a possible Masters return.
“I’m committed to taking the time needed to return in a healthier, stronger, and more focused place, both personally and professionally,” Woods wrote in his statement.
He is scheduled to attend the Champions Dinner at Augusta National next week ahead of the Masters tournament. Woods asked for privacy for himself and his family as he begins this period of treatment and recovery.
