Tiger Woods is leaving the United States to undergo inpatient treatment at an international facility, after being arrested last Friday on suspicion of DUI following a rollover car crash near his home on Jupiter Island, Florida. A Florida judge approved the move on Wednesday after his attorney argued the relocation was medically necessary.
Martin County Court Judge Darren Steele granted the request following a teleconference with Woods’ lawyer Douglas Duncan and Assistant State Attorney Caroline Houston. Duncan argued that treatment within the US was not viable because Woods’ privacy had been repeatedly compromised.
“Ongoing medical scrutiny and public exposure create significant barriers to his care,” Duncan wrote, “and would result in setbacks and an inability to fully engage in treatment,” according to Golf Digest.
Duncan explained that, according to the defendant’s treating physician, the recommendation for treatment abroad is due to the Woods’ complex medical condition and the urgent need for a level of care that cannot be safely or effectively provided in the United States, as reported by CBS Sports.
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“Repeated breaches of his privacy, along with constant medical scrutiny and public exposure, create major obstacles to his care and could lead to setbacks, preventing him from fully engaging in treatment,” the pro golfer’s attorney said.
Woods, 50, entered a not guilty plea to misdemeanor DUI charges and refusal to submit to a lawful test. The same day, he issued a public statement. “I know and understand the seriousness of the situation I find myself today,” Woods said.
Tiger Woods is leaving the United States to undergo inpatient treatment at an international facility, after being arrested last Friday on suspicion of DUI following a rollover car crash near his home on Jupiter Island, Florida. Photo: Jason Oteri/AP
“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 towards lasting recovery.”
Woods was found with two hydrocodone pills in his left pants pocket at the scene. He told a deputy he had been distracted — looking at his phone and changing the radio — when the car ahead slowed. Officers noted profuse sweating, bloodshot and severely dilated eyes, lethargic movements and persistent hiccups throughout the encounter.
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Woods has been recovering from Achilles surgery and another back operation. He participated in the TGL finals last Tuesday but had not competed in a professional golf tournament since July 2024 at The Open Championship. His last major championship win came at the 2019 Masters, where he staged one of sport’s most celebrated comebacks.
This is not the first time Woods has navigated legal and personal turmoil. Tiger Woods was arrested on a reckless driving charge in 2017 — a case also handled by attorney Duncan — which led to reduced charges after toxicology results showed five substances in his system.
The pro golfer was found with two hydrocodone pills in his left pants pocket at the scene. He told a deputy he had been distracted — looking at his phone and changing the radio — when the car ahead slowed. Photo: MEGA GC Images/Getty Images
The pro golfer subsequently entered inpatient treatment. In 2021 he suffered serious injuries in a single-car accident requiring extensive surgery.
Augusta National Golf Club chairman Fred Ridley said in a statement: “Augusta National Golf Club and the Masters Tournament fully support Tiger Woods as he focuses on his well-being. Although Tiger will not be joining us in person next week, his presence will be felt here in Augusta.”
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The PGA Tour also issued a statement of support, with CEO Brian Rolapp saying Woods had his “full respect and support” as he took the step. Whether he returns to competitive golf this year remains unclear, though CBS Sports notes he had filed registration paperwork for the 2026 US Senior Open and retains exemptions into all PGA Tour signature events.
