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Woods steps back from golf following Florida car crash
Golf legend Tiger Woods has withdrawn from professional competition to focus on his health after being charged with driving under the influence in Florida last Friday. The 15-time major champion told authorities he was distracted by his phone while adjusting the radio before colliding with a parked truck.
Legal proceedings and health update
Woods, 50, entered a not guilty plea through his attorneys on Tuesday to charges including DUI, property damage, and refusing a breathalyzer test. Police reported finding two hydrocodone pills in his pocket-an opioid painkiller-and noted he appeared disoriented, with dilated pupils and excessive sweating.
A Florida judge granted Woods permission to travel abroad for inpatient treatment, citing privacy concerns. His lawyer stated the golfer requires an "intensive, highly individualized" program unavailable domestically due to repeated breaches of confidentiality.
Ryder Cup captaincy declined
The PGA of America announced Wednesday that Woods has turned down the role of U.S. Ryder Cup captain for the 2027 event in Ireland. The organization praised his decision to prioritize health, expressing "sincere hope for his strength and recovery."
Woods, an eight-time U.S. Ryder Cup participant, last competed in the event in 2018. His sole victory as a player came in 1999. Keegan Bradley led the team in 2025, while Luke Donald will captain Europe for the third consecutive time in 2027.
Reactions and future role
Former Ryder Cup captain Paul McGinley told Sky Sports that Woods' immediate focus should be stabilizing his health, calling the situation a "line in the sand." While acknowledging Woods' competitive future is uncertain, McGinley emphasized his value to the PGA Tour's leadership.
"There's nobody better positioned to coerce players into a future for the tour than Tiger Woods because they are all so much in awe of him."
Paul McGinley, Sky Sports
Background
Woods has played a limited schedule since a 2021 car accident that required multiple surgeries. His recent crash marks another setback in a career already hampered by injuries and personal challenges.
