Champion golfer Tiger Woods says he’s going to “step away” and seek treatment after being charged with driving under the influence in the aftermath of a rollover car accident in Florida on Friday.
“I know and understand the seriousness of the situation I find myself in today. 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,” he wrote on X Tuesday.
“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.”
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Woods had two hydrocodone pills in his pocket at the time of the arrest, reported The New York Times’ The Athletic. His arrest warrant also said that he had looked down at his cellphone and was changing the radio station when he clipped a pickup truck and rolled his vehicle.
Woods’ attorney appeared in court Tuesday and pleaded not guilty on his behalf, the Athletic reported.
Woods was hospitalized with leg injuries after a 2021 rollover crash in Los Angeles. He had compound fractures in both legs and a broken ankle. He was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence in 2017 after being found asleep in a car that had its motor running and was still in a driving lane. He admitted to self-medicating with Vicodin, Dilaudid, Xanax, Ambien and THC after a spinal surgery.
The golfer last competed in 2024.
