Tiger Woods announced Tuesday that he plans to take an indefinite break from golf to focus on his health. Mr. Woods was arrested four days ago. DUI with property damage and refusal to submit to a DUI test after two-car collision Near my home on Jupiter Island, Florida. he plea of not guilty in court earlier in the day.
“I recognize and understand the seriousness of the situation I find myself in today,” Woods said in a statement less than a week before the 2026 Masters. “I will be taking a period of time off to receive treatment and focus on my health. This is necessary in order to prioritize my health and work towards a lasting recovery.”
“I am committed to taking the time necessary to return to a healthier, stronger, and more focused place, both personally and professionally. Thank you for your understanding and support, and ask that you please respect my family, loved ones, and myself’s privacy at this time.”
Woods’ statement came hours after the 15-time major champion pleaded not guilty in court and requested a jury trial. He will be represented by attorney Douglas Duncan, who previously represented Woods after he was arrested for drunk driving in 2017, resulting in a reduced charge.
After his arrest, Woods sought professional help and entered inpatient treatment to manage his medication and manage his back pain and sleep problems.
Woods is recovering from Achilles tendon surgery and lengthy back surgery. Although he played in last Tuesday’s TGL final, he has not played in a professional golf tournament since the British Open Championship in July 2024.
“Tiger Woods is a legend in our sport, and his influence extends far beyond his accomplishments on the course,” the PGA Tour said in a statement. “But above all, Tiger is a human being, and our focus is on his health and well-being. We continue to have our full support as Tiger takes this important step.”
PGA Tour CEO Brian Rolup added in a subsequent statement: “Tiger Woods is one of the most influential people the sport has ever known.” “Over the past year, I have come to deeply appreciate not only Tiger’s impact on the game, but also the friendship and perspective he shared as he entered the golf industry. My thoughts are with Tiger and his family as he takes this step, and I have the utmost respect and support.”
According to a Martin County Sheriff’s arrest affidavit, Woods stated that he was looking down at his cell phone at the time of the accident. Officers at the scene described the 50-year-old man as “sweating profusely” and “lethargic and slow,” and found two white hydrocodone tablets in his pants pocket. Woods admitted to taking “a few” prescription drugs, although the exact types were redacted in the affidavit.
The five-time Masters champion underwent his seventh back surgery in 11 years in October 2025. Although he did not rule out the possibility of playing at Augusta National Golf Club, it seemed 50-50 that he would play in the Masters as he continues to recover after playing in the TGL.
“Augusta National Golf Club and the Masters Tournament fully support Tiger Woods’ commitment to his health,” Chairman Fred Ridley said in a statement. “Tiger won’t be joining us in person next week, but his presence will be felt here at Augusta.”
What’s next for Tiger Woods?
It remains to be seen whether Tiger will return to golf after treatment. If he continues to play as well as he did after his 2017 arrest, the next step in strengthening his body for the PGA Tour could send Woods to the PGA Tour Champions, where he may be able to play from a golf cart to relieve stress on his aching lower back and lower body.
Although Woods has been tight-lipped about his plans for 2026, he appears to view the Senior Tour as a serious and competitive path to a return to major tournaments. He recently submitted his registration paperwork for the 2026 U.S. Senior Open this summer, giving him the option to compete in the championship in early July if he wishes.
Tiger is exempt from participating in all of the PGA Tour’s signature events, giving him plenty of options to start against the best teams on tour at any time after the Masters.
All we know at this point is that Woods will be taking a break from golf for the time being. However, given that he was legitimately considered for the Masters, and given his physical ability, there is a chance he could return before the end of the year.
