Woods Announces Treatment Hiatus Following DUI Arrest and Rollover Crash in Florida

Tiger Woods has announced his decision to step away from professional golf to seek treatment and prioritize his health following his arrest on suspicion of driving under the influence after a rollover crash near his Jupiter Island home in Florida.

The 15-time major champion issued a public statement acknowledging the gravity of his situation and outlining his commitment to recovery. "I know and understand the seriousness of the situation I find myself in today," Woods declared on social media. "I am stepping away for a period of time to seek treatment and focus on my health."

Woods emphasized that this decision represents a necessary step toward personal rehabilitation and professional renewal. "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 announcement follows his formal plea of not guilty to DUI charges and demand for a jury trial, according to court records released Tuesday. The incident occurred Friday afternoon when Woods' Land Rover clipped a truck and rolled onto its side on a residential road near his Florida residence.

According to a probable cause affidavit obtained by authorities, Woods told investigating deputies he was distracted by his phone and adjusting the radio before the collision. The golf star reportedly failed to notice that the vehicle ahead had slowed, prompting him to attempt passing by crossing into oncoming traffic across double yellow lines.

The maneuver resulted in Woods striking the other vehicle with the front right portion of his SUV, causing him to lose control and flip onto the driver's side. Woods was the sole occupant and required assistance exiting through the passenger side due to the rollover. The other driver, Jeremy Bullard, reported no injuries, while property damage was estimated at approximately $5,000.

Deputies at the scene documented multiple indicators of impairment, including profuse sweating, sluggish movement, bloodshot and glassy eyes, and lethargic speech patterns. Woods informed investigators he had not consumed alcohol but acknowledged taking "a few" prescription medications earlier that day, including Vicodin, along with blood pressure and cholesterol medications.

Field sobriety tests revealed additional concerning signs as Woods demonstrated difficulty maintaining balance, struggled to follow instructions, and experienced coordination problems. He attributed some physical limitations to his extensive medical history, noting seven back surgeries and more than 20 leg operations, plus ankle mobility issues.

A search following his arrest uncovered two hydrocodone pills in Woods' possession, while subsequent breath testing confirmed no alcohol presence in his system. However, Woods refused to provide a urine sample for drug testing, resulting in additional charges related to refusing lawful testing procedures.

Former President Donald Trump, whose former daughter-in-law Vanessa Trump has been in a relationship with Woods for over a year, offered supportive comments about the golfer's situation. "He lives a life of pain. He has a lot of pain," Trump explained, referencing Woods' extensive injury history while emphasizing that "he doesn't have an alcohol problem, but he does have pain."

Woods' legal proceedings continue with a docket sounding scheduled for May 5th, following his attorney's filing of an arraignment waiver and jury trial demand. The golfer will not be required to appear in person for the initial April 23rd hearing.

The incident represents another significant challenge for Woods, who has maintained a limited competitive schedule while recovering from multiple injuries, including a ruptured achilles tendon. His last official PGA Tour appearance occurred in July 2024, though he recently participated in the TGL indoor league he co-founded with Rory McIlroy.

Woods had been listed for this year's US Senior Open without confirming participation, while his availability for next month's Masters at Augusta National remained uncertain even before this incident. His treatment announcement effectively removes him from competitive consideration for the foreseeable future as he focuses on personal recovery and rehabilitation.