Tiger Woods has said he will seek treatment following his arrest on a driving under the influence (DUI) charge in Florida last week. In a statement shared on social media on Tuesday, hours after pleading not guilty, Woods said: “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,” he added. “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 was arrested after his vehicle overturned in a crash near his home in Jupiter Island, Florida, on Friday afternoon.
According to Martin County Sheriff John Budensiek, Woods had attempted to overtake a flatbed truck at a “high rate of speed” but was forced to swerve due to oncoming traffic, striking the vehicle.
He was not injured in the crash, but officers said he showed signs of impairment. “Woods did exemplify the signs of impairment,” the sheriff said, adding that although a breath test did not indicate alcohol use, Woods appeared to be affected by “some type of medication or drug”.
He was charged with driving under the influence with property damage and refusing to submit to a lawful test.
The incident comes just days before The Masters, which begins on 9 April, casting further doubt over Woods’ participation.
Woods, 50, had only recently returned to competition after a lengthy absence, including an appearance at the TGL Finals in late March.
He has faced a series of injuries in recent years. In 2021, he was seriously injured in a car crash in California, later saying: “I’m lucky to be alive and also have a limb.”
The PGA Tour said in a statement: “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 has undergone multiple surgeries in recent years, including lumbar disk replacement surgery and a procedure for a ruptured Achilles tendon in 2025.
Reflecting on his attempts to return to top-level golf, Woods said: “I’ve been trying. Just this body is – it doesn’t recover like it did when it was 24, 25. “But I keep trying. I want to play. I love the tournament… It’s meant a lot to me and my family over the years.”
