Tiger Woods' Former Caddie Offers Advice After Latest Crash

Joe LaCava says he's leaving Woods 'alone' to figure things out after DUI arrest and rehab stint.

Apr. 9, 2026 at 9:53pm

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A fragmented, geometric painting depicting a golf course scene with overlapping planes of color, representing the multifaceted struggles facing Tiger Woods and his caddie as they navigate the golfer's latest setbacks.A cubist interpretation of the complex relationship between Tiger Woods and his longtime caddie, as the golf legend faces new challenges in his storied career.Jupiter Island Today

Tiger Woods' longtime caddie, Joe LaCava, says he hasn't reached out to the golf legend since his latest car crash and DUI arrest, instead letting Woods 'figure it out' on his own. LaCava expressed hope that Woods can still make a comeback at the Masters someday, even in his 50s, but believes Woods needs to focus on his health and not drive while taking medication.

Why it matters

Woods' struggles with injuries, pain management, and legal issues have raised concerns about his well-being and ability to return to competitive golf. LaCava's comments provide insight into Woods' inner circle and the challenges he faces in getting his life and career back on track.

The details

According to reports, Woods was arrested near his Florida home in March after crashing his SUV while allegedly under the influence of prescription medication. Prosecutors are seeking to subpoena Woods' prescription records as part of the case. Woods' former caddie, Joe LaCava, says he hasn't contacted Woods since the incident, wanting to give him space to 'figure it out' on his own. LaCava expressed hope that the 50-year-old Woods can still make a comeback at the Masters someday, despite his age and health issues.

  • Woods crashed his SUV near his Florida home on March 27, 2026.
  • On April 7, 2026, Florida prosecutors said they want to issue a subpoena seeking copies of 'any and all prescription medication on file' for Woods as part of the case.
  • The 90th Masters tournament began on April 9, 2026.

The players

Tiger Woods

A 50-year-old professional golfer and five-time Masters champion who has struggled with injuries, pain management issues, and legal troubles in recent years.

Joe LaCava

Tiger Woods' longtime caddie who says he hasn't reached out to Woods since his latest car crash and DUI arrest, wanting to give him space to 'figure it out' on his own.

Gary Player

A three-time Masters champion who offered a solution for Woods, suggesting he should stop driving and get a chauffeur instead.

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What they’re saying

“He's got to help himself, which is what I'm hoping he'll do. But I have not made any contact with him ...”

— Joe LaCava, Tiger Woods' Longtime Caddie

“All you got to do is don't drive a car and get a chauffeur. Do I blame him for taking medicine? Hell no. He has sleep deprivation. Do I blame him for taking something to help him sleep? No. But I don't think he should drive a car. When you're taking that medicine, it's dangerous when you're driving a car.”

— Gary Player, Three-Time Masters Champion

What’s next

Woods is expected to continue his treatment and recovery, with the hope that he can eventually make a return to competitive golf, potentially at a future Masters tournament.

The takeaway

Woods' ongoing struggles with injuries, pain management, and legal issues highlight the challenges elite athletes can face in maintaining their health and careers. His inner circle, including longtime caddie Joe LaCava, are offering support and advice, but ultimately Woods must take responsibility for his own well-being and recovery.