On Tuesday, golf icon Tiger Woods declared his intention to take a break “for a duration” to undergo treatment, a decision made in the wake of last week’s vehicle accident where, according to a probable cause document, two hydrocodone tablets were discovered in the left pocket of the 15-time major champion.
Subsequently, Woods faced charges for driving under the influence causing property damage and declining to undergo a legal test. The Associated Press reported on Tuesday that he has entered a not guilty plea regarding his DUI charges.
In a communication shared on X, Woods conveyed, “I am fully aware and comprehend the gravity of my current circumstances.”
He further stated, “I am dedicated to dedicating the necessary time to regain a state of improved health, resilience, and clarity, across both my personal and professional life. Your comprehension and encouragement are valued, and I request respect for the privacy of my family, close acquaintances, and myself during this period.”
As Woods prioritizes his welfare, the Masters organization confirmed Tuesday evening that he will not be competing at Augusta National the following week.
Although his participation in the year’s initial major golf tournament was already uncertain due to his ongoing recovery from injuries to his back and Achilles tendon, his recent detention in Jupiter, Florida, eclipsed these earlier challenges.
A declaration from the PGA Tour stated, “Tiger Woods stands as an icon in our sport, with an influence reaching well past his accomplishments during play. Nevertheless, at his core, Tiger is an individual, and our primary concern rests with his health and overall welfare. He retains our unwavering backing as he embarks on this significant journey.”
Brian Rolapp, the newly appointed CEO of the PGA Tour, also released a declaration on Tuesday, subsequent to Woods’ public statement:
“Tiger Woods ranks among the most impactful personalities in the history of sports. Throughout the past year, I’ve developed a profound admiration for Tiger, not just for his contributions to golf, but also for his camaraderie and the insights he’s shared since my entry into the golf sector.”
Rolapp concluded: “My best wishes are extended to him and his relatives as he undertakes this endeavor, which garners my complete esteem and encouragement.”
The affidavit of probable cause, disclosed on Tuesday, indicated that Woods informed law enforcement in Martin County, Florida, that he was operating his phone and adjusting the radio at approximately 2 p.m. on Friday when his Range Rover struck the trailer of a slower-traveling pickup and subsequently overturned onto its driver’s side.
No physical harm occurred. Woods exited the sport utility vehicle independently.
Law enforcement officials observed “multiple indicators of diminished capacity” at the location. While alcohol was not suspected, officers considered the possibility of prescription drugs or other substances. Woods underwent a breath test, yielding a result of 0.00, but he declined to provide a urine sample. He was characterized as “sluggish” at the site and attempted to elaborate on his recent medical conditions and treatments.
Woods participated in competitive golf just days before the incident, competing in the TGL indoor golf championship alongside his Jupiter Links Golf Club team. This marked his first genuine competitive appearance since the British Open in 2024. He sustained an Achilles rupture in March 2025 and had surgery for a spinal disc replacement in October.
The Friday collision represents the most recent in a series of incidents involving Woods. In 2021, he was involved in a solitary vehicle rollover accident in Southern California, an event that almost resulted in the loss of his leg. Additionally, in 2017, he was apprehended for impaired driving during a traffic stop in Florida. He attributed that occurrence to “an unforeseen side effect of prescribed medicine” and admitted culpability for negligent driving.
Woods’ playing time has been limited in recent years, and his performance has been challenging when he has competed. He has either failed to make the cut or retired from six of his past eight major tournament appearances. His top performance during that period was a tie for 47th place at the 2022 Masters. Both instances where he successfully made the cut also occurred at Augusta National, with his most recent being a 60th-place finish in 2024.
The timing of Woods’ potential return to the Masters, or any other competition, remains uncertain following his recent difficulties. However, for the immediate future, Woods will refrain from active participation in the sport.
