Tiger Woods to 'Seek Treatment' After Pleading Not Guilty to DUI Charge
Golf icon Tiger Woods has announced his intention to "seek treatment and focus on my health" after formally pleading not guilty to charges arising from a car crash in Florida last week. The 15-time major champion was arrested and spent eight hours in jail following the incident, which saw his Land Rover roll over after colliding with a pick-up truck.
Legal Proceedings and Public Statement
Court documents from Martin County reveal that Woods skipped his initial court appearance on Tuesday but entered a written plea of not guilty through his legal team, demanding a jury trial. In his first public comments since the crash, Woods posted on X, stating, "I know and understand the seriousness of the situation I find myself in today."
He continued, "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 prioritise 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." Woods also requested privacy for himself and his family during this time.
Details of the Incident and Investigation
According to a police affidavit, Woods was observed by officers as "sweating profusely" and acting "lethargic and slow" with "bloodshot and glassy" eyes. He admitted to looking at his cell phone and changing the radio station just before the crash, failing to notice the slowing vehicle ahead. The 50-year-old golfer walked away unhurt and passed a breathalyser test for alcohol, but refused a urinary test for drugs.
Woods told authorities he had not consumed alcohol but takes "a few" prescription medications, which he had taken earlier that morning, while insisting he had not used any illegal substances. During the investigation, he was noted to be "extremely alert and talkative" and had "hiccups throughout."
Sobriety Tests and Evidence
Multiple sobriety exercises were conducted, during which Woods struggled to follow instructions. A deputy concluded, based on training and experience, that Woods' "normal faculties were impaired and he was unable to safely operate the motor vehicle." A search of his vehicle uncovered two white pills identified as hydrocodone, a prescription opioid used for severe pain.
The driver of the other vehicle, who was slowing to turn into a driveway, was also uninjured. Woods faces additional charges for property damage and refusal to submit to a lawful test.
Historical Context and Health Background
This incident adds to Woods' history of legal and health challenges. In 2017, he was arrested on suspicion of DUI in Florida, later pleading guilty to reckless driving after five prescription drugs were found in his system. The 2009 crash into a fire hydrant and tree outside his home led to significant personal turmoil.
Woods has endured extensive medical issues, including emergency surgery for multiple leg injuries after a serious car accident in California in February 2021. The affidavit notes he has had 20 surgeries on his leg from that crash, plus seven back operations, and was observed "limping and stumbling" during the recent investigation.
Impact on Golf Career
The crash occurred after Woods returned to competitive action for the first time in over a year in the indoor TGL competition last Tuesday. He had expressed hope to play at the Masters from April 9-12, but his latest statement suggests this will not happen as he focuses on recovery and treatment.
