Tiger Woods announced Tuesday that he will step away from golf “for a period of time” as he seeks treatment following last week’s rollover crash in Florida.
“I know and understand the seriousness of the situation I find myself in today,” Woods said in a post on X. “I’m committed to taking the time needed to return to 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.”
With his focus now on recovery, Woods will not compete at The Masters this spring. His availability for the season’s first major had already been uncertain due to lingering back and Achilles injuries, but his recent arrest has now taken precedence.
The incident occurred on Jupiter Island, Florida, where Woods was attempting to pass a work truck at a high rate of speed. His SUV clipped the trailer and flipped over. He was able to exit the vehicle on his own and was not injured.
Responding officers noted signs of impairment, though alcohol was not suspected. Woods registered a 0.00 on a breathalyzer test but declined further testing. Authorities described him as “lethargic” at the scene, where he referenced recent surgeries and injuries. He was later arrested and charged with driving under the influence and refusal to submit to a lawful test. Some legal experts have questioned whether the DUI charge will ultimately hold.
The crash came just days after Woods returned to competition, appearing in the TGL indoor golf league final with his Jupiter Links Golf Club team—his first competitive outing since the 2024 Open Championship.
In recent years, injuries have significantly limited Woods’ play. He underwent surgery for a ruptured Achilles in March 2025 and later had a lumbar disc replacement that October. His struggles in majors have reflected those setbacks, with missed cuts or withdrawals in six of his last eight starts. His best finish in that span was a tie for 47th at the 2022 Masters.
This latest incident adds to a series of setbacks off the course. Woods survived a serious single-car crash in California in 2021 that nearly cost him his leg, and in 2017 he was arrested in Florida for driving under the influence, later attributing the incident to a reaction to prescribed medication.
For now, Woods’ return to competitive golf remains uncertain. His immediate priority, as he emphasized, is his health and well-being.
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