Days after a car crash and arrest in Florida, golf icon Tiger Woods says he will step back from the public spotlight to address his health.
According to the New York Post, Woods announced in a statement posted to social media Tuesday, shortly after entering a not guilty plea to driving under the influence charges stemming from last week’s incident.
“I know and understand the seriousness of the situation I find myself in today,” he wrote. “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.”
The announcement comes just days before the start of The Masters, leaving his participation in the tournament even more uncertain.
Authorities say the 50-year-old golfer rolled his luxury SUV Friday afternoon while driving near his home on Jupiter Island. The crash occurred around 2 p.m., marking Woods’ fourth vehicle accident since 2009.
According to John Budensiek, Woods had attempted to pass a flatbed truck “at a high rate of speed.” When oncoming traffic appeared, he swerved and struck the truck.
Although Woods was not injured in the crash, deputies reported noticing signs that concerned them.
“Mr. Woods did exemplify the signs of impairment,” the sheriff said.
Officials said a breath test did not indicate alcohol, but investigators believed Woods appeared to be under the influence of “some type of medication or drug,” Budensiek said.
Police arrested Woods on charges of driving under the influence with property damage and refusing a lawful test. He was later released after spending several hours in jail, and his booking photo showed him with bloodshot eyes.
The arrest marks Woods’ second DUI-related case since 2017, when he pleaded guilty to driving while impaired by prescription pills after being found asleep at the wheel in Jupiter.
In a statement Tuesday, the PGA Tour voiced its support.
“Tiger Woods is a legend of our sport whose impact extends far beyond his achievements on the course,” the tour said. “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 has faced a series of physical setbacks in recent years, including lumbar disk replacement surgery in October and surgery for a ruptured left Achilles tendon in March 2025.
Despite those challenges, he had continued to express his desire to return to Augusta.
“I’ve been trying. Just this body is – it doesn’t recover like it did when it was 24, 25. It doesn’t mean I’m not trying,” Woods said. “But I keep trying. I want to play. I love the tournament. I’ve loved being there since I was 19 years old. It’s meant a lot to me and my family over the years.”
