BY MIRABEL ODETA
Golf legend Tiger Woods announced Tuesday that he is stepping away from the public spotlight to seek treatment and focus on his health after pleading not guilty to driving under the influence charges related to a car crash in Florida last week.
The 15-time major champion, widely regarded as one of the greatest golfers of all time, was arrested last Friday after his vehicle rolled over on a two-lane road near his home on Jupiter Island in Florida. Authorities said the accident involved a Land Rover driven by Woods that overturned during the incident.
No other vehicles were directly involved in the crash and no injuries were reported. Woods was taken into custody by local authorities and later released on bail the same evening.
In a statement shared on social media, Woods acknowledged the seriousness of the situation and said he would be taking time away from professional commitments to prioritize his recovery and overall well-being.
“I know and understand the seriousness of the situation I find myself in today,” Woods 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.”
The 50-year-old golfer added that he intends to use the time away from competition to return in a healthier and more focused state, both personally and professionally. He also requested privacy as he works through the situation.
Following his announcement, Augusta National Golf Club confirmed that Woods will not attend next week’s The Masters Tournament, the first major championship of the golf season. Woods has historically been one of the most prominent figures at the tournament, where he has claimed five victories during his career.
Court documents filed Tuesday show that Woods has formally pleaded not guilty to the DUI charges and requested a trial by jury. According to court records, his next court appearance is scheduled for May 5, although he will not be required to appear in person until the trial phase if the case proceeds that far.
Investigators examining the crash released details from a probable-cause affidavit describing the moments leading up to the accident. According to the report, Woods told authorities he was looking down at his phone and did not realize that a vehicle ahead of him had slowed down on the road.
The affidavit also stated that Woods had two hydrocodone pills in his pocket when officers arrived at the scene. Officers reported observing signs that raised concerns about impairment, including lethargic movements, bloodshot eyes, excessive sweating, and extremely dilated pupils.
When questioned about whether he had taken prescription medication earlier in the day, Woods reportedly responded that he had taken “a few” medications that morning.
Woods’ manager did not immediately respond to requests for comment regarding the details outlined in the affidavit.
According to the incident report filed by a deputy from the Martin County Sheriff’s Office, Woods told investigators he was adjusting the radio station and looking at his cell phone shortly before the crash, which caused him to miss seeing a slowing vehicle ahead.
The officer also noted in the report that Woods appeared to be limping and stumbling while walking. During the interaction with authorities, Woods reportedly explained that he has undergone seven back surgeries and more than 20 procedures on his leg over the course of his career.
The deputy further observed that Woods appeared extremely alert and talkative during the investigation but also experienced hiccups throughout the encounter. Woods told the officer that he walks with a limp and that his ankle occasionally locks up while walking.
Authorities administered a series of field sobriety tests at the scene. The deputy conducting the tests later concluded that Woods’ normal faculties appeared impaired and that he was not able to safely operate a motor vehicle at the time.
The incident comes at a difficult time for Woods, who had only recently returned to competitive golf after dealing with years of injuries and surgeries. Last week he participated in the finals of the TGL Golf League, an indoor golf league that combines simulated gameplay with real chipping and putting.
The format of the league requires significantly less walking than traditional tournaments, allowing Woods to compete while managing the physical challenges that have affected his career in recent years.
After that match, Woods told reporters he was preparing his body in hopes of competing at the Masters, scheduled for April 9–12 at Augusta National. Even if he chose not to compete in the tournament, Woods had originally planned to attend the traditional Champions Dinner held before the event.
However, Augusta National confirmed Tuesday that Woods will not be present at the club during the tournament week.
In a statement, Augusta National chairman Fred Ridley expressed support for Woods as he focuses on his health and recovery.
“Augusta National Golf Club and the Masters Tournament fully support Tiger Woods as he focuses on his well-being,” Ridley said. “Although Tiger will not be joining us next week, his presence will be felt here in Augusta.”
Woods remains one of the most influential figures in golf history, with a career that transformed the sport and inspired generations of players around the world. While the legal process surrounding the DUI charge continues, fans and fellow golfers alike will be watching closely as he takes time away from competition to focus on recovery and personal health.
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