Tiger Woods Steps Away From Golf To Seek Treatment After Florida Car Crash And Arrest

Tiger Woods Steps Away From Golf To Seek Treatment After Florida Car Crash And Arrest

  • Tiger Woods broke his silence with a major update confirming a pause from competitive golf following recent events
  • He decided to step back from the spotlight to focus on recovery, personal well-being, and regrouping away from the course
  • Supporters and observers weighed in online, sparking a wave of emotional and contrasting reactions across social platforms

Tiger Woods released a statement on Tuesday, 31 March 2026, in the aftermath of a highly documented Florida car crash that led to his DUI arrest.

Tiger Woods, Jupiter Links Golf Club
Tiger Woods of Jupiter Links Golf Club plays a shot during the match against the Los Angeles Golf Club at SoFi Centre on March 24, 2026, in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida. Image: James Gilbert
Source: Getty Images

Woods, one of the most successful golfers to emerge from the United States, once dominated headlines for his performances on the golf course. However, in recent years, he has faced a series of setbacks off the course, with the crash on Friday, 27 March marking his second in as many years following an incident in California in 2023.

The 50-year-old was expected to make a return at The Masters on 9 April, but the latest episode in his eventful career appears to have forced him to step away as he seeks treatment and support.

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Tiger Woods' statement on health and recovery

Woods said in a statement released on X on Tuesday evening that he understood the seriousness of his situation and would be stepping away from golf for a period of time to seek treatment and focus on his health. He added that the decision was necessary to prioritise his well-being and work towards lasting recovery, noting his commitment to returning in a healthier, stronger and more focused state, both personally and professionally.

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“I appreciate your understanding and support, and ask for privacy for my family, loved ones and myself at this time,” he concluded.

See the statement below from Woods:

The PGA Tour also released a statement expressing its support for Tiger Woods, describing him as a legend of the sport whose influence extends beyond his achievements on the course. The organisation emphasised that, above all, he is a person and that their primary focus is on his health and well-being, adding that he continues to have their full support as he takes this important step.

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See the statement from the PGA Tour below:

Social media reacts to Woods' statement

The 15-time major champion told authorities on Tuesday, 31 March, that he had been looking down at his phone, and social media users reacted to the statement from Woods:

@Mandigo66:

''I wish u well, Tiger and take this time to get closer to God. He has always been there for u just acknowledge him and welcome him into your life. We can't do everything alone; we all need our Father God.''

@GroenouVan:

''How about focusing on how you put other lives in the street in danger by your poor choices and how you should spend time thinking about others rather than yourself?''

@golfaway33:

''Good for you Tiger. May you find a relationship with the God of your understanding and make our 12 Steps a part of your life. God bless ya. 🙏🏻🏌🏽‍♂️''

@PatrickBucket:

I think we should all pray for Tiger or anyone who struggles with addiction, it's definitely a disease that can consume a person. Good luck, Tiger. Prayers are going up for you and your family

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@bennette1229:

''Wishing you all the best in healing! Can’t wait to see you back in action, whatever that may be!!'
Tiger Woods, USA, United States of America
Tiger Woods is driven from the Martin County Jail after being arrested for driving under the influence after a car crash on March 27, 2026, in Stuart, Florida. Image: Joe Raedle
Source: Getty Images

Woods turned professional in 1996 and went on to win 15 major championships, including five Masters titles, three U.S. Opens, three Open Championships, and four PGA Championships. He is tied for the record for PGA Tour wins with 82 victories and spent 683 weeks as world number one across multiple spells. Woods completed the career Grand Slam at the age of 24.

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Source: Briefly News

Authors:
Ncube Harrison avatar

Ncube Harrison (Sports Editor) Harrison Ncube is a sports journalist with years of experience covering African and global sports. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Media Studies from the Zimbabwe Open University and previously worked at Sports Buzz (2018–2022), freelanced for Sports Journal (2023–2024), and contributed to Radio 54 African Panorama Live (2021–2023). He joined Briefly News in February 2025. For inquiries, reach him at ncube.harrison@briefly.co.za.