Tiger Woods Arrested for DUI After SUV Crash in Florida
Tiger Woods, one of the most iconic figures in the world of golf, was arrested last week after crashing his SUV in Jupiter Island, Florida. According to body camera footage from the incident, Woods was seen on his phone shortly before the crash, telling a deputy, “I was just talking to the president.” While the conversation wasn’t captured on video, it’s unclear whether he was referring to former President Donald Trump, whose daughter-in-law, Vanessa Trump, is currently dating Woods.
Following the arrest, Trump expressed concern about Woods, stating, “I feel so badly. He’s got some difficulty. Very close friend of mine. He’s an amazing person. Amazing man. But, some difficulty.” The White House has not yet responded to requests for further comment on whether Trump actually spoke to Woods after the crash.
Details of the Incident
The crash occurred when Woods’ Land Rover clipped the back of a truck and rolled onto its side on a residential road. No one was injured, but the incident led to Woods being charged with driving under the influence (DUI). During the encounter, Woods told authorities that he was looking at his phone and changing the radio station when the accident happened.
The body camera footage showed Woods appearing surprised as he was handcuffed after failing a sobriety test. A video from the back of the patrol car also captured the golfer hiccupping, yawning, and repeatedly nodding off during the 15-minute ride to the station.
Deputy Tatiana Levenar, who conducted the sobriety test, stated, “I do believe your normal faculties are impaired, and you’re under an unknown substance, so at this time you’re under arrest for DUI.” Woods responded, “I’m being arrested?” before confirming, “Yes sir,” as he stood alongside the road.
Medications and Legal Consequences
During the arrest, authorities searched Woods’ pockets and found two white pills. Woods identified them as Norco, a painkiller containing acetaminophen and hydrocodone. Later confirmation by authorities revealed that he was in possession of hydrocodone.
In the bodycam footage, Woods claimed he had not consumed any alcohol and had taken “a few” medications earlier that day. However, the audio was muted during parts of the conversation where he described the drugs. Woods also said, “I looked down at my phone, and all of a sudden — boom,” as he knelt on a lawn prior to his arrest.
Woods, 50, pleaded not guilty to the DUI charge and later released a statement saying he would be stepping away indefinitely to seek treatment and focus on his health. During the field sobriety test, deputies noticed Woods limping and wearing a compression sock on his right knee. He explained that he had undergone seven back surgeries and over 20 surgeries on his right leg, with his ankle seizing up while walking.
Medical History and Recent Injuries
Woods, who has been a dominant force in golf since his early career, has faced numerous injuries throughout his life. His 2021 Los Angeles car crash left his right leg severely damaged, with doctors considering amputation. He has not played an official event since the 2024 British Open and was recovering from a seventh back surgery in October. He was attempting to return for the Masters, where he is a five-time champion.
Following the recent crash, Woods agreed to a Breathalyser test, which showed no signs of alcohol, but he refused a urine test, according to authorities. He was arrested and released on bail eight hours later. Under a change to Florida law last year, refusing a breath, blood, or urine test became a misdemeanor, even for a first offence.
Public Reaction and Impact
Woods remains one of the most influential athletes in the world. As the first Black person to win the Masters in 1997, he has captivated fans with records that may never be broken. However, his ongoing health struggles have limited his ability to compete at the highest level.
