American professional golfer Tiger Woods, widely regarded as one of the greatest athletes in history, is stepping away from golf to seek treatment and focus on his health.
The move following his arrest on suspicion of driving under the influence after a rollover crash near his Florida home, according to an announcement seen by TNX Africa.
“This is necessary in order for me to prioritise my well-being and work toward lasting recovery,” he said.
The 50-year-old was arrested and charged with driving under the influence after clipping a truck and rolling his car in Florida on Friday.
He also faces charges of property damage and refusal to submit to a lawful test.
Breaking: Tiger Woods announced he is stepping away from golf to seek treatment and focus on his health. pic.twitter.com/48mAeCk8Oo
— ESPN (@espn) March 31, 2026
Woods, a 15-time major champion, was involved in a high-speed rollover crash in a residential area near his Jupiter Island home.
He was taken into custody and later released on bail, with no injuries reported. He submitted a written plea of not guilty through his lawyers on Tuesday.
Speaking publicly about the incident for the first time, Woods wrote on X, “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.”
Court records show he has pleaded not guilty and requested a jury trial.
A probable cause affidavit cited by The Guardian states Woods told deputies he was looking down at his phone and adjusting the radio before the crash.
Woods is tied with Sam Snead for the most all-time PGA Tour wins at 82 and remains the youngest winner of the Masters, a title he claimed in 1997.