Tiger Woods has broken his silence with an emotional statement, announcing he will "step away" to focus on his health and seek treatment. This comes after he pleaded not guilty to charges relating to a serious car crash in Florida last week.
Woods Enters Not Guilty Plea After Arrest
The golf icon was arrested and jailed for eight hours on Friday before being released on bail. He faces charges of driving under the influence following a collision where his Land Rover rolled over after attempting to overtake a pick-up truck towing a trailer.
Woods formally skipped his initial court appearance on Tuesday but submitted a written plea of not guilty through his legal team, demanding a jury trial according to Martin County court documents.
Emotional Statement Released on Social Media
On Tuesday night, Woods commented on the incident for the first time via a statement on X. He expressed: "I know and understand the seriousness of the situation I find myself in today."
He continued: "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."
The 15-time major winner added: "I'm 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, loved ones and myself at this time."
Disturbing Details Emerge From Crash Investigation
According to police reports, investigating officers observed that Woods was "sweating profusely" while acting "lethargic and slow" with eyes described as "bloodshot and glassy" at the scene.
Woods admitted to authorities that he "was looking down at his cell phone and changing the radio station" moments before the crash and "did not notice the vehicle in front of him had slowed down."
Prescription Medications and Sobriety Tests
The 50-year-old golf legend walked away unhurt from the collision. While he passed a breathalyser test for alcohol, Martin County Sheriff John Budensiek confirmed Woods refused to submit to a urinary test for drugs.
Woods told authorities he had not consumed any alcohol but admitted taking "a few" prescription medications earlier that morning, though he insisted he had not taken any illegal drugs.
During the investigation, Woods was observed to be "extremely alert and talkative" and had "hiccups during the entire investigation." Multiple sobriety exercises were conducted where he struggled to follow instructions.
A deputy concluded: "How he performed on the exercises and based on my training, knowledge and experience, I believe Woods' normal faculties were impaired and he was unable to safely operate the motor vehicle."
Prescription Opioids Found in Vehicle Search
During a search of his vehicle, investigators discovered two white pills that were later identified as hydrocodone, a prescription opioid medication used to treat severe pain.
Woods faces additional charges including property damage and refusal to submit to a lawful test. The driver of the other vehicle, who had been slowing to turn into a driveway off the two-lane road, was also uninjured in the collision.
The golf superstar's decision to step away comes at a critical juncture in his career and personal life, marking a significant development in the ongoing legal proceedings surrounding the Florida crash incident.
