Tiger Woods Approved to Seek Treatment Abroad After DUI Arrest

PGA Tour star announces plans to step away from golf to focus on his health.

Apr. 1, 2026 at 7:38pm

Tiger Woods has been granted permission by a Florida judge to travel abroad and seek treatment following his recent arrest on suspicion of DUI. Woods announced plans to step away from golf ahead of the upcoming Masters Tournament in order to prioritize his well-being and work towards a lasting recovery.

Why it matters

Woods' arrest and decision to step away from the sport highlights the ongoing challenges professional athletes can face with mental health and substance abuse issues. This high-profile case shines a light on the importance of providing athletes with the necessary resources and privacy to address these personal matters.

The details

According to court documents, Woods' attorney cited privacy concerns in his appeal to the judge, arguing the famous golfer 'couldn't receive the care needed in the U.S. because his 'privacy has been repeatedly compromised.' Woods pleaded not guilty to two misdemeanor charges of DUI and property damage stemming from a rollover car crash near his home in Jupiter Island, Florida on March 27. He was found in possession of two hydrocodone pills and showed signs of impairment, though he blew a .000 on a breathalyzer.

  • On March 27, Woods was involved in a rollover car crash near his home in Jupiter Island, Florida.
  • On April 1, Woods was granted permission by a Florida judge to travel abroad and seek treatment.
  • On April 4, Woods announced he would be stepping away from golf ahead of the upcoming Masters Tournament.

The players

Tiger Woods

A 50-year-old professional golfer and 15-time major champion on the PGA Tour.

Douglas Duncan

Tiger Woods' attorney who cited privacy concerns in his appeal to the judge.

Fred Ridley

The chairman of Augusta National Golf Club, who confirmed Woods will not be attending the Masters Tournament next week.

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What they’re saying

“I know and understand the seriousness of the situation I find myself in today. 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 toward lasting recovery.”

— Tiger Woods

“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.”

— Fred Ridley, Augusta National Chairman

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Tiger Woods to travel abroad for treatment.

The takeaway

This high-profile case highlights the ongoing challenges professional athletes can face with mental health and substance abuse issues, and the importance of providing them with the necessary resources and privacy to address these personal matters.