Tiger Woods says he is “stepping away for a period of time to seek treatment and focus on my health” following an arrest after a car crash.

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

The 15-time major champion submitted a written plea of not guilty via his lawyers on Tuesday.

That came after a police report earlier on Tuesday detailed his behaviour 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.

Speaking 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. This is necessary in order for me to prioritise my well-being and work toward lasting recovery.”

Prior to the crash he had not ruled out playing in next month’s Masters - though he has not competed at 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.”

‘A legend of our sport but a person above all else’

The PGA Tour also issued its first comment on Woods following the golfer’s statement.

“Tiger Woods is a legend of our sport whose impact extends far beyond his achievements on the course,” it said.

“But above all else, Tiger is a person, and our focus is on his health and well‑being. Tiger continues to have our full support as he takes this important step.”

The golf body’s CEO, Brian Rolapp, added: “Tiger Woods is one of the most influential figures the sports world has ever known.

“Over the last year, I have come to deeply appreciate Tiger not only for his impact on the game, but for his friendship and the perspective he has shared with me as I joined the golf industry.

“My thoughts are with him and his family as he takes this step, for which he has my full respect and support.”

Last week’s accident was the latest in a string of incidents that have littered Woods’ recent years.

His marriage ended - as did lucrative sponsorship deals - after he struck a fire hydrant, a tree and several hedges outside his home in a 2009 incident which sparked accusations of extramarital affairs.

Then in 2017 he was sentenced to a year’s probation after pleading guilty to reckless driving. That came after police officers found Woods slumped at the wheel of his car near his home. A toxicology report found he had several legal medications in his system and marijuana’s active ingredient.

In 2021, Woods survived a serious accident which left him with extensive injuries. He has had multiple surgeries since, and played only a limited schedule.

Last week, he competed in the TGL indoor golf league - his first competitive golf for more than a year - following more back surgery and an Achilles injury.

Source: Reuters

-- Agencies