Woods set to ‘step away’ from golf following crash

Dubai: Tiger Woods shared on X that he plans on “stepping away” to focus on his health following his arrest after a car crash last week.

The legendary golfer was held in custody for eight hours after being arrested and charged for driving under the influence following a car crash in Florida where his vehicle was overturned.

He was also charged with property damage and refusal to submit to a lawful test.

Woods who has been granted bail, spoke about the incident for the first time on X where he pledged to seek treatment following the incident.

He said: "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 prioritise my well-being and work toward lasting recovery.”

Before the crash, he hadn’t ruled out competing in next month’s Masters, although he hasn’t played in a major since missing the cut at The Open in July 2024.

"I'm committed to taking the time needed to return in a healthier, stronger and more focused place, both personally and professionally," his statement added.

"I appreciate your understanding and support and ask for privacy for my family, loved ones and myself at this time."

Woods, through his lawyers, entered a written plea of not guilty on Tuesday, this followed the release of a police report earlier that day outlining his conduct after the crash.

It said Woods had two hydrocodone pills in his pocket, an opioid used to treat severe pain, and that officers observed him acting "lethargic and slow" while "sweating profusely" with "extremely dilated" pupils.

This isn't the first time Tiger Woods has grabbed the headlines for his antics away from golf. In 2009, his carefully managed public image unraveled following a car crash outside his Florida home, which quickly exposed a series of extramarital affairs.

The revelations dominated global headlines, led to the breakdown of his marriage to Elin Nordegren, and cost him major sponsorship deals as brands distanced themselves. Woods took an extended break from golf to address personal issues, later admitting to infidelity and seeking therapy, marking one of the most dramatic falls from grace in modern sports.

Years later, further controversy followed. In 2017, Woods was arrested in Florida on suspicion of driving under the influence, though it was later revealed he had a reaction to prescription medications rather than alcohol.

He pleaded guilty to reckless driving and entered a diversion program. Alongside these incidents, Woods has also battled repeated injuries and surgeries that have interrupted his career, adding to the narrative of personal and professional struggle. Despite these setbacks, he has managed multiple comebacks, rebuilding both his career and public image over time.