Tiger Woods Seen Failing Sobriety Tests in Fresh DUI Arrest Footage
Newly emerged footage from Tiger Woods' recent DUI arrest in Florida reveals the golf legend failing sobriety tests before being placed in handcuffs. The incident occurred on Friday after Woods rolled his SUV while attempting to overtake a vehicle at high speed, with police later finding two opioid pills in his pocket.
Detailed Account of the Arrest Scene
In the video, Woods is seen undergoing a series of field sobriety tests administered by officers at the scene. When asked how much he had to drink, Woods replied, 'None.' He admitted to taking medication earlier that morning but denied recent alcohol consumption.
The tests included:
- A horizontal gaze nystagmus test where an officer moved her hand side-to-side in front of Woods' face
- A finger-to-nose coordination exercise
According to the arrest affidavit, Woods displayed significant impairment during these exercises, described as 'limping and stumbling' by officers. After the tests, he was instructed to place his hands behind his back and was handcuffed.
Prescription Medication Discovery
During a subsequent search, officers discovered two hydrocodone pills in Woods' pockets. Hydrocodone is a prescription opioid typically used to treat severe pain. The arresting officer informed Woods, 'I do believe your normal faculties are impaired and you're under [the influence of] an unknown substance.'
Charges and Legal Proceedings
Woods faces multiple charges including:
- Driving under the influence
- Careless driving resulting in a crash
- Property damage
- Refusal to submit to a lawful test
The golf star has pleaded not guilty to all charges and is scheduled to appear in court on May 5. The careless driving citation carries a potential fine of $163.
Connection to Donald Trump
In separate bodycam footage released earlier, Woods can be heard telling police, 'I was just talking with the President' following the crash. President Donald Trump later confirmed he had spoken with Woods after the arrest, describing him as 'a very close friend' and noting his physical pain from various ailments.
Trump commented, 'He tested negative for alcohol, as you know, and he is under a tremendous physical pressure from his various ailments... the back and the leg. He lives a life of pain.'
Additional Footage and Behavior
The Martin County Sheriff's Office released further footage showing Woods appearing dazed and lethargic at the roadside. In a 17-minute video of his transport to jail, Woods can be seen yawning repeatedly, experiencing hiccups, and briefly falling asleep in the back of the police vehicle.
Woods explained the crash to officers, stating, 'I looked down at my phone, and all of a sudden... boom!' He reportedly told police he was changing the radio station when he clipped a pressure washer trailer, causing his Range Rover to roll onto its side.
Medical and Historical Context
This marks the fourth car crash involving Woods since 2009 and his second DUI arrest not involving alcohol. In 2017, he pleaded guilty to reckless driving after being found asleep behind the wheel of his car, which he attributed to a bad mix of painkillers.
Woods has endured multiple serious injuries throughout his golf career, including:
- Multiple leg and ankle injuries from a 2021 Los Angeles crash where doctors considered amputation
- Chronic back problems
- Repeated left knee issues
Professional Consequences
The arrest has impacted Woods' professional commitments. He will not participate in the upcoming Masters tournament, an event he has won five times. Additionally, the PGA of America announced that Woods declined the opportunity to captain the United States team at the 2027 Ryder Cup.
In a statement released Tuesday, Woods said, '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.'
Investigation Details
Martin County Sheriff John Budensiek described Woods as 'cooperative, but [was] not trying to incriminate himself.' Authorities noted Woods' eyes appeared 'bloodshot and glassy' with 'extremely dilated' pupils at the scene.
While a breathalyzer test showed no alcohol in his system, Woods refused to provide a urine sample. Sheriff Budensiek stated this refusal means authorities 'will never get definitive results with what he was impaired on.'
The investigation revealed Woods had been traveling at high speeds on a residential road with a 30mph speed limit when he attempted to pass a pressure cleaner truck. His vehicle swerved to avoid collision but clipped the trailer, causing the rollover.
