Tiger Woods has finally spoken out after his DUI arrest, stating he is seeking treatment and stepping away from golf for the time being.
Breaking His Silence
In a post on X, the golf superstar wrote, “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 prioritize 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.”
Recent DUI Arrest
Tiger’s crash occurred in Florida on Friday. He claimed he was focused on his phone and radio before realizing the pickup truck in front of him had slowed down.
The evidence shows that the SUV clipped a trailer being hauled by a truck that had slowed to turn into a driveway. Woods swerved and flipped on it side, with Woods climbing out of the passenger’s window.
When deputies interviewed Woods, he showed “severe signs of impairment,” including being sweaty, lethargic, and having bloodshot and glassy eyes. While he blew a zero on the breathalyzer, he refused a urine sample.
Officers found two loose hydrocodone pills in his pocket. Hydrocodone was also found in Woods’ system when he was arrested on DUI charges in May 2017.
Tiger Woods later entered a not guilty plea on Tuesday, and faces DUI with property damage and a refusal to submit to a test charges.
Stepping Away from Golf
Before the current accident and DUI arrest, there was some speculation that Woods would return to the course for the Masters next month after competing in a TGL event last week.
However, it’s safe to say he’s no longer pursuing that opportunity.
While he didn’t commit to playing, he was working towards a return to competition at next week’s Masters at Augusta National Golf Club.
The Masters chairman, Fred Ridley, released a statement about Woods’ impending absence. “Augusta National Golf Club and the Masters Tournament fully support Tiger Woods as he focuses on his well-being. Although Tiger will not be joining us in person next week, his presence will be felt here in Augusta.”
Woods may have been sidelined these past few years due to injuries, but he has been heavily involved in the PGA Tour’s governance.
Support from Others
Many have come out and openly supported Woods’ journey towards recovery in the golf world. This includes PGA Tour president Brian Rolapp.
He said, “Tiger Woods is one of the most influential figures the sports world has ever known. Over the last year, I have come to deeply appreciate Tiger not only for his impact on the game, but for his friendship and the perspective he has shared with me as I joined the golf industry.”
He finished by saying, “My thoughts are with him and his family as he takes this step, for which he has my full respect and support.”
The PGA Tour also released a statement in support of Woods. They wrote, “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.”
Concerns from Elin Nordegren
Some may be offering support, but others are concerned about Woods’ situation, including his ex, Elin Nordegren. The pair share two children, daughter Sam (18) and son Charlie (17).
A source told People that Nordegren is “concerned” about him after his most recent accident. “His recovery from the crash [in 2021] in California was brutal.”
The source added, “The kids are close with Tiger, so of course Elin cares too. She wants him to be well. Both kids are great and love spending time with their dad. Elin’s concerned that he had another car crash and got arrested.”