Tiger Woods Speaks Out After DUI Arrest, Seeks Treatment

Golf legend makes call to President Trump during incident, who expresses support for Woods' recovery

Apr. 3, 2026 at 3:48am

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A fractured, geometric painting depicting a golf course scene broken down into sharp, overlapping planes of muted greens, browns, and greys, conceptually representing the complex personal struggles of Tiger Woods.A cubist interpretation of the pressures and challenges facing golf legend Tiger Woods as he seeks treatment for his health issues.Stuart Today

Tiger Woods was arrested on March 27, 2026 in Jupiter Island, Florida for driving under the influence (DUI) and refusal to submit to a urine test. Newly released police bodycam footage shows Woods speaking on the phone with someone he identifies as President Donald Trump during the incident. Trump later expressed support for Woods, saying the golfer was dealing with 'tremendous physical pressure' and 'a lot of pain' but does not have an alcohol problem. Woods has now announced he is stepping away to seek treatment and focus on his health.

Why it matters

Tiger Woods is one of the most iconic and influential figures in the sports world, and his struggles with health and legal issues have been closely followed. This latest incident raises questions about Woods' well-being and the challenges he continues to face, even as he remains a beloved figure in golf and beyond.

The details

According to the police report, Woods was found 'lethargic' and showing 'signs of impairment' at the scene of a car crash on March 27. He was charged with a DUI and refusal to submit to a urine test. The police bodycam footage shows Woods speaking on the phone with someone he identifies as President Trump during the incident. Two white pills, later identified as the opioid hydrocodone, were found in Woods' pocket.

  • On March 27, 2026, Tiger Woods was arrested for DUI and refusal to submit to a urine test in Jupiter Island, Florida.
  • On March 31, 2026, Woods announced he is stepping away to seek treatment and focus on his health.

The players

Tiger Woods

A legendary professional golfer who has won 15 major championships and is one of the most successful and influential athletes of his generation.

Donald Trump

The 45th President of the United States, who spoke with Woods on the phone during the DUI incident.

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What they’re saying

“I was just talking with the President.”

— Tiger Woods

“I think he's doing great, he's doing good. He tested negative for alcohol, as you know, and he is under a tremendous physical pressure from his various ailments... the back and the leg. He lives a life of pain. He has a lot of pain. He's an amazing guy. He's an amazing athlete. He does have pain. He doesn't have an alcohol problem, but he does have pain.”

— Donald Trump, President of the United States

“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. I appreciate your understanding and support, and ask for privacy for my family, loved ones and myself at this time.”

— Tiger Woods

What’s next

Woods has been granted permission by a Florida judge to leave the US to seek treatment at an out-of-country facility. The PGA Tour has expressed its full support for Woods as he takes this important step in his recovery.

The takeaway

This latest incident in Tiger Woods' storied career highlights the ongoing challenges he faces with his health and well-being. Despite his immense success and influence, Woods remains human and vulnerable, and his decision to step away and prioritize his recovery deserves respect and support from the public and the golf community.