Just a week after making his professional return after more than a year, golf icon Tiger Woods has confirmed he will not compete in the Masters Tournament at Augusta, scheduled for April 9-12. While speculation had grown about his potential comeback, the situation dramatically shifted on Friday when he was involved in a car accident and subsequently arrested for driving under the influence (DUI), being released on bail eight hours later.
His Land Rover overturned as he attempted to pass a truck. Fortunately, no one else was injured, but Woods now needs to focus on treatment and his health. “I know and understand the severity of the situation I am in today,” the 50-year-old golfer stated in a social media message. “I am taking a leave of absence for a period of time to seek professional help to manage my health. This is necessary for me to prioritize my well-being and work towards a lasting recovery.”
Woods’s arrest followed his refusal to submit to a urine test. Authorities reportedly found him “lethargic, slow, profusely sweating, with bloodshot eyes and extremely dilated pupils,” according to Reuters. He was also found with two hydrocodone pills in his pocket. Woods pleaded not guilty, explaining that he became disoriented while looking at his phone.
Tiger Woods has a storied history at the Masters, winning the tournament five times between 1997 and 2019. His 2019 victory was particularly notable, marking his 15th major championship title and coming 11 years after his last major win.