“I am taking a step back for a moment to undergo treatment and focus on my health. It is necessary for me to prioritize my well-being and work towards a sustainable recovery,” wrote golfer Tiger Woods in a statement posted on social media, after pleading not guilty on Tuesday to “driving under the influence” during a car accident on Friday in Florida. He was arrested and held in custody for a few hours.
Severely injured in his right leg in an accident in 2021, the 50-year-old champion was arrested on Friday by the Martin County police, his car overturned, after hitting a truck he was trying to pass on a two-lane road.
“Driving under the influence”
The American emerged without serious injuries from the accident, but was arrested for refusing to undergo a urine test after testing negative for alcohol. Woods was charged with “driving under the influence,” which in the United States can encompass alcohol or drugs, “property damage,” and “refusal to submit to a test.” He was held in custody for eight hours before being released in the evening. The golfer pleaded not guilty on Tuesday in front of the Martin County court. He requested to be judged by a jury in this case.
Without any recent accomplishments on the golf course, Tiger Woods continues to make headlines, but more often for his injuries or off-course incidents. The former world No. 1 with 15 Major victories has not competed since July 2024. A year ago, he underwent surgery for a ruptured left Achilles tendon, casting doubts on the future of his career. He was also operated on his back last October. His participation in the upcoming Masters, the most prestigious tournament of the season taking place from April 9 to 12 in Augusta, Georgia, was still being anticipated by the golf community in recent days.
