Tiger Woods Takes a Break to Seek Treatment After Car Crash Incident

Wed Apr 01 2026 01:10:56 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Tiger Woods announces he is stepping away from golf to focus on his health following a recent DUI arrest after a car accident in Florida.

Tiger Woods, the renowned golfer, has declared his intention to take time off to seek treatment and prioritize his well-being following an arrest for driving under the influence after a car crash in Florida. Woods, 50, was involved in an accident where he clipped a truck and rolled his vehicle. He was charged with DUI, property damage, and refusal to submit to a lawful test. Following the incident, Woods issued a statement expressing the importance of his health and recovery, receiving support from the PGA Tour and its CEO.

Tiger Woods says he is stepping away for a period of time to seek treatment and focus on my health following an arrest after a car crash.

The 50-year-old was arrested and charged with driving under the influence after clipping a truck and rolling his car in Florida on Friday.

He was also charged with property damage and refusal to submit to a lawful test.

The 15-time major champion submitted a written plea of not guilty via his lawyers on Tuesday.

That came after a police report earlier on Tuesday detailed his behaviour after the crash.

It said Woods had two hydrocodone pills in his pocket - an opioid used to treat severe pain - and that officers observed him acting lethargic and slow while sweating profusely with extremely dilated pupils.

Speaking about the incident for the first time, Woods wrote on X: I know and understand the seriousness of the situation I find myself in today.

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 prioritise my well-being and work toward lasting recovery.

Prior to the crash he had not ruled out playing in next month's Masters - though he has not competed at a major since missing the cut at The Open in July 2024.

I'm committed to taking the time needed to return in a healthier, stronger and more focused place, both personally and professionally, his statement added.

I appreciate your understanding and support and ask for privacy for my family, loved ones and myself at this time.

The PGA Tour also issued its first comment on Woods following the golfer's statement, saying, Tiger Woods is a legend of our sport whose impact extends far beyond his achievements on the course. But above all else, Tiger is a person, and our focus is on his health and well-being. Tiger continues to have our full support as he takes this important step.

Woods’ recent string of incidents includes a 2009 crash outside his home that led to legal troubles and personal turmoil. In 2017, he faced a similar situation resulting in probation after being found unconscious in his car. Though he returned to competition, his career has been marred by injury and issues, making this latest event a critical juncture in his life.