Tiger Woods 'stepping away' as he admits 'seriousness of the situation' he is in
15-time major winner makes first public comments since his car crash in Florida
Tiger Woods has announced that he is “stepping away for a period of time” to get treatment following the car crash last Friday that led to him being charged for driving under the influence.
In his first public comments since the accident in Florida - he has plead not guilty to the charge - the 15-time major winner issued a statement on Tuesday night, confirming that he will not be playing in next week’s Masters.
It read: “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 prioritize my well-being and work toward lasting recovery.
“I am committed to taking the time needed to return in a healthier, stronger, and more focused place, both personally and professionally. I appreciate your understanding and support, and ask for privacy for my family, my loved ones and myself at this time.”
The statement from the 50-year-old led to comments being made by both Augusta National Golf Club and the PGA Tour.
“Augusta National Golf Club and The Masters Tournament fully support Tiger Woods as he focuses on his well-being,” said Fred Ridley, Augusta National’s chairman. “Although Tiger will not be joining in person next week, his presence will be felt here in Augusta.”
A statement from the PGA Tour read: “Tiger Woods is a legend of our sport whose impact extends beyond his achievements on the course.
“But above 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.”
Woods, who, other than a TGL appearance just over a week ago, last played in The Open at Royal Troon in 2024, has been heavily involed in PGA Tour matters over the past year. In his role as chairman of a Future Competition Committee, he has been at the heart of a new schedule being shaped.
In a separate statement, PGA Tour CEO Brian Rolapp said: “Over the last year, I have come to deeply appreciate Tiger not only for his impact on the game, but his friendship and the perspective he has shared with me as I joined the golf world.
“My thoughts are with him and his family as he takes this step, for which he has my full respect and support.”
Woods has been offered the chance to be the US captain for next year’s Ryder Cup at Adare Manor in Ireland, where Luke Donald will be aiming to make history as the first captain to land three successive wins in the biennial event.
It is believed that Woods had been given a ‘soft deadline’ by the PGA of America , but, with more serious matters to deal with over the coming few weeks and months, it now seems highly unlikely that he will be contemplating that possibility.
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