Tiger Woods To Step Away From Golf After Alleged DUI

Tiger Woods will step away from golf after his alleged DUI.

Woods was investigated by police after an accident in Jupiter, Florida, on March 27. Although he passed a Breathalyzer test, the police reported that he looked visibly intoxicated. They asked him to do a urine test, which he refused. He was arrested on suspicion of DUI and for refusing to do a lawful test.

On March 31, Woods finally spoke out about the incident.

“I am stepping away for a period of time to seek treatment and focus on my health,” Woods said. “This is necessary in order for me to prioritize my well-being and work toward lasting recovery.”

If Woods was driving under the influence, this wouldn’t be the first time. He was arrested in 2009 and 2017 for DUI. After the 2017 DUI, he told reporters he’d seek professional help.

For a while, it looked like Woods’ substance issues were behind him. However, in 2021, he was in a non-DUI-related accident. This accident nearly killed him, and it took him more than 15 months to fully recover.

Woods had to go back on pain medication to deal with his injuries. Although there are no reports of him abusing the pain medication, a relapse is always possible. 

Before his official announcement, many people suspected Woods could step away from golf. Former golfer Brandel Chamblee urged Woods to retire from golf in a March 29 interview. 

Woods’ post only implies a short-term absence. Woods had recently returned to golf after a two-year absence at the TGL indoor golf league finals. His last victory was in 2019. This gave him his 82nd career win, tying Sam Snead for the all-time record. The chase for the all-time record could be a big reason Woods wants to keep playing.