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Golf icon Tiger Woods arrested on DUI allegations
Florida authorities detained the 15-time major champion on Friday after his vehicle rolled following a collision in Jupiter Island. Woods was later released on bail.
Crash details and charges
The Martin County Sheriff's Office reported that Woods, 50, lost control of his Land Rover while attempting to overtake a pressure-washing truck at high speed. The vehicle rolled after clipping the truck on Beach Road shortly before 2:00 PM local time (19:00 GMT).
Sheriff John Budensiek stated that officers observed signs of impairment but ruled out alcohol as a factor. Woods passed a breathalyzer test with zero readings but declined a urine test, leading to an additional charge for refusal.
"He was cooperative but understandably cautious about self-incrimination," Budensiek told reporters.
Martin County Sheriff John Budensiek
Legal proceedings and prior incidents
Woods spent eight hours in custody-the minimum required by state law-before posting bail. Authorities released a mugshot and images of the crash scene, which showed skid marks on the roadway.
The charges, classified as misdemeanors, include driving under the influence, property damage, and refusal to submit to testing. Investigators have not determined the substance involved in the alleged impairment.
This is not the first legal trouble for Woods. In 2017, he pleaded guilty to reckless driving after being found unconscious in his parked car with multiple prescription medications in his system. A 2009 incident outside his home led to revelations of extramarital affairs, ending his marriage and costing him sponsorships.
Impact on Woods' career and upcoming events
The arrest deals another blow to Woods' efforts to return to competitive golf. He recently competed in the TGL indoor league finals-his first tournament appearance since July 2024-but has struggled with injuries, including a ruptured Achilles tendon in March 2025 and back surgery last October.
Woods has not played in a major championship since missing the cut at The Open in July 2024. His last cut made was at the 2024 Masters, where he finished 60th. With the 2026 Masters less than two weeks away, his participation now appears uncertain.
"He's battling to be fit for the Masters, but this latest incident makes that prospect even more doubtful," an unnamed source told reporters.
Reactions and next steps
President Donald Trump, a longtime friend of Woods, expressed sympathy, stating, "He's an amazing person going through a difficult time."
Woods' representatives have not commented on the arrest. Legal proceedings are expected to unfold in the coming weeks, with investigators continuing to analyze evidence from the crash.
