Criticism is mounting for Tiger Woods following his latest DUI arrest, with Stephen A. Smith delivering a fiery on-air rebuke that dismissed the golfer’s call for privacy.
According to the New York Post, while speaking on First Take, Smith didn’t hold back as he questioned Woods’ decision-making and lifestyle in the wake of the incident.
“Damn that privacy. I don’t give a damn what you worried about,” Smith said five days after Woods’ car crash near his Florida home. “You must have a very highly suspect life that you as a billionaire don’t even want to hire a driver. Something wrong. Something with that. You want your privacy. Privacy from what? What’s the driver gonna do? Because he dropped you off at some place he’ll know where he dropped you off? I mean, damn. What are you trying to hide?
“The point is a rhetorical question because I don’t care and none of us should care, it’s not our business. What is our business is you staying away from being behind the wheel of a vehicle when you’re inebriated.”
Woods’ latest crash adds to a troubling history behind the wheel.
The 50-year-old has been involved in four car incidents dating back to 2009, including a 2017 DUI arrest in Florida, where he was found in his vehicle while under the influence of prescription medication.
In the most recent case, authorities said Woods showed “signs of impairment” after crashing on March 27 in Jupiter Island. According to Martin County Sheriff John Budensiek, Woods appeared to be affected by “some type of medication or drug.”
He was arrested on charges of driving under the influence with property damage and refusing a lawful test.
Police also reported that Woods had hydrocodone pills on him at the time and told officers, “I take a few,” including earlier that morning.
Smith made clear he has little patience for that explanation.
“Bump his privacy. I don’t give a damn about his privacy,” he said. “We don’t care right now. You’ve been the wheel of a vehicle inebriated three (sic) times. Ain’t nobody trying to know all your business. What we want to know is that you ain’t going to get behind the wheel of a damn car when you’re inebriated. You’re lucky you didn’t kill somebody, that’s what we want to hear.”
He continued: “What we care to hear from you is that we don’t have to worry about you being behind the wheel of a vehicle inebriated again. That’s it. Go ahead and get better, you understand? And live your life and be at peace, man. Ain’t nobody wishing any harm upon you. But what you did potentially harmed somebody else. You’re lucky you didn’t kill somebody, if not yourself.”
Smith also pointed to Woods’ past, including a serious 2021 crash that nearly ended his career, as evidence that the lesson still hasn’t sunk in.
“He didn’t (learn the lesson),” Smith said. “Back behind the wheel, yet again. That is the problem. We’re not going to feel sympathy for people that get behind the wheel of a ride knowing that you are not your full self, you are not fully cogent and lucid and all of that. Nah, enough of that. Stay the hell away from being behind the wheel of a vehicle. Hire a driver. I think we know you can afford it. Do it.”
Woods, who has pleaded not guilty to the latest DUI charges, addressed the situation in a statement Tuesday while asking for privacy.
“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.
“I’m committed to taking the time needed to return in a healthier, stronger, and more focused place, both personally and professionally. I appreciate your understanding and support, and ask for privacy for my family, loved ones and myself at this time.”
Woods is expected to miss the upcoming The Masters as he focuses on his recovery.
