Tiger Woods makes first statement since car crash arrest and vows to ‘‘step away and seek treatment’

Tiger Woods said he will be ‘stepping away for a period of time to seek treatment’ after pleading not guilty to DUI following his car crash in Florida last week.

The 50-year-old was arrested on suspicion of DUI last Friday after his Range Rover overturned in a collision with a truck near his home on Jupiter Island, Florida.

An arrest affidavit released on Tuesday said Woods had ‘bloodshot and glassy’ eyes and ‘extremely dilated’ pupils when observed by the investigating officers.

The 15-time major champion was also said to be ‘sweating profusely’ and was ‘lethargic and slow’. He was also in possession of two hydrocodone pills, a prescription opioid used to treat severe, chronic pain.

Woods told Martin County Sheriff investigators that he was unaware that the truck in front had slowed down to turn as he was looking down at his mobile phone.

The 50-year-old told police that he had not drunk alcohol that day and registered zero on a breath test, but refused to provide a urine sample which can be tested for drugs and medication.

At a court appearance on Tuesday, Woods, who was not present, pleaded not guilty to DUI charges via his laywers and requested a jury trial.

But on Tuesday evening, the legendary golfer released a statement recognising the ‘seriousness of the situation’ and that he would be stepping away from the sport.

‘I know and understand the seriousness of the situation I find myself in today, Woods said. ‘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. 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.’

Shortly afterwards, the PGA Tour released a statement which said: ‘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.’

PGA Tour CEO Brian Rolapp added: ‘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.

‘My thoughts are with him and his family as he takes this step, for which he has my full respect and support.’

Woods, who also suffered multiple leg injuries following a serious car accident in February 2021, had returned to competitive golf for the first time in over a year at the final night of the TGL season last Tuesday.

The American was targeting an appearance at the upcoming Masters, which begins on April 9, but he is now not expected to compete at the first major of the year.

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