Tiger Woods Steps Away From Golf After Florida Crash Arrest

Tiger Woods says he will step away from golf to seek treatment and focus on his health following his arrest after a car crash in Florida.

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The 50-year-old golfer was detained on Friday after authorities said he clipped a truck and rolled his vehicle. Police charged him with driving under the influence, property damage and refusing to submit to a lawful test.

In a message posted on X, Woods acknowledged the seriousness of the situation. He said he plans to take time away from competition to prioritise his well-being and work toward long-term recovery.

Woods announces break to focus on health

Woods added he intends to return in a stronger position both personally and professionally. He also asked for privacy for himself and his family.

Before the crash, the 15-time major champion had not ruled out playing in next month’s The Masters. He has not competed in a major tournament since missing the cut at The Open Championship in July 2024.

Police report details behaviour after crash

Woods entered a written plea of not guilty through his lawyers on Tuesday. The filing followed the release of a police report outlining officers’ observations after the incident.

According to the report, two hydrocodone pills were found in his pocket. Hydrocodone is an opioid medication used to treat severe pain.

Officers wrote that Woods appeared “lethargic and slow” and was sweating heavily. They also reported that his pupils were “extremely dilated”.

Authorities said he declined to take a lawful test at the scene.

PGA Tour backs Woods

The PGA Tour issued a statement after Woods’ announcement, describing him as one of the sport’s most influential figures.

The organisation said Woods’ influence extends beyond his achievements on the course and stressed that the main priority is his health and well-being. It added that he continues to have the tour’s full support as he seeks treatment.

PGA Tour chief executive Brian Rolapp also expressed support for Woods and his family. Rolapp said Woods has had a major impact on the game and that he respects the decision to focus on recovery.

Long history of injuries and incidents

The latest crash follows a series of personal and physical setbacks in recent years.

In 2009, Woods struck a fire hydrant, a tree and hedges outside his home, an incident that triggered public revelations about extramarital affairs and led to the collapse of his marriage and several endorsement deals.

In 2017, he received a year of probation after pleading guilty to reckless driving. Police found him asleep at the wheel near his Florida home, and a toxicology report later showed several legal medications in his system along with marijuana’s active ingredient.

Woods also survived a major car crash in 2021 that left him with serious injuries. Since then he has undergone multiple surgeries and has competed only occasionally.

Last week he appeared in the TGL indoor golf league, marking his first competitive appearance in more than a year following further back surgery and an Achilles injury.

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Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 1 April 2026