Tiger Woods speaks out after DUI arrest and car crash

The golfer was charged with two misdemeanors after a collision in Jupiter Island, Fla.

Tiger Woods in Nassau, Bahamas on Dec. 7, 2025.Credit: David Cannon/Getty

Tiger Woods is speaking out for the first time since being arrested and charged with DUI as the result of a rollover car crash in Florida.

“I know and understand the seriousness of the situation I find myself in today,” the golfer said in a statement posted on his official social media accounts on Tuesday. “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.”

Woods continued, “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.”

Tiger Woods in Palm Beach Gardens, Fla., on Feb. 18, 2025.Megan Briggs/TGL/TGL via Getty

The Martin County Sheriff’s Office previously stated that while driving his Land Rover on Jupiter Island, Woods overtook a truck at a “high speed” as it was slowing down to pull into a driveway. Authorities said that the truck’s driver attempted to pull over to the side of the road to allow Woods to pass, but Woods’ car clipped the truck’s pressure washer trailer and rolled onto the driver’s side. Woods then climbed out of the passenger side door.

Sheriff John Budensiek said that Woods was “lethargic on scene” and did “exemplify signs of impairment.” He noted at a press conference that the athlete took a breathalyzer test that resulted in zero, but later refused to complete a urinalysis test while in jail.

Woods was charged with two misdemeanors: DUI with property damage and refusal to submit to lawful test.

The golfer was previously involved in a “single vehicle roll-over traffic collision” in 2021 that saw his Genesis GV80 SUV sustain “major damage,” per the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department. Woods showed no signs of impairment during that incident but had to undergo surgery due to multiple leg injuries.

Woods was charged with DUI in Jupiter, Fla., in 2017. A toxicology report found painkillers, sleep drugs — but not alcohol —  in his blood, according to a toxicology report cited by NBC News. The incident prompted Woods to check into a clinic for prescription medication addiction. He pleaded guilty to reckless driving, and the prosecution ultimately dropped the DUI charge in exchange.

The golfer was hoping to compete at The Masters in Augusta, Georgia, in early April, but President Trump — the former father-in-law of Woods’ girlfriend, Vanessa Trump — cast doubt on his ability to play there.

“I love Tiger, but he won’t be there,” the president said in a Fox News interview the day before the athlete’s crash. “Well, he’ll be there, but he won’t be playing in it.”