Tiger Woods Cited for DUI After Crash, Told Police He Was Distracted by Phone

The golf legend was found with hydrocodone pills and showed signs of impairment, according to a police affidavit.

Mar. 31, 2026 at 3:15pm

A fractured, geometric painting depicting a car crash scene, with sharp planes of muted earth tones and hints of red, conveying the chaotic and disorienting nature of the incident.A cubist interpretation of the aftermath of Tiger Woods' car crash, highlighting the fragmented and disorienting nature of the incident.Augusta Today

Tiger Woods told police he was looking at his phone and changing a radio station when his vehicle collided with a slower-moving pickup truck's trailer, causing his car to roll onto its driver's side. Woods was charged with DUI with property damage and refusal to submit to a lawful test, and two hydrocodone pills were found in his pocket. The affidavit noted Woods' eyes were bloodshot and glassy, his pupils dilated, and his movements lethargic.

Why it matters

This incident raises concerns about Woods' well-being and potential substance abuse issues, which could impact his future in professional golf. It also highlights the dangers of distracted driving and the need for athletes to be responsible when using prescription medications.

The details

According to the police affidavit, Woods' vehicle collided with a slower-moving pickup truck's trailer, causing his car to roll onto its driver's side. Woods told police he was distracted by his phone and changing a radio station at the time of the crash. Two hydrocodone pills were found in his left pant pocket, and the affidavit noted that Woods' eyes appeared bloodshot and glassy, his pupils dilated, and his movements lethargic. Woods blew a 0.00 on a breathalyzer but refused a urinalysis test.

  • The incident occurred on Friday afternoon.
  • Woods was charged with DUI with property damage and refusal to submit to a lawful test.
  • A mandatory court appearance is scheduled for April 23 in Stuart, Florida.

The players

Tiger Woods

A 15-time major champion and one of the most successful golfers of all time.

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What they’re saying

“Tiger Woods told police he was distracted by his phone and changing a radio station at the time of the crash.”

— Tiger Woods

What’s next

Woods was scheduled to be in Augusta, Georgia, next week for the opening of a golf course as well as the Masters' Champions Dinner on Tuesday. It remains to be seen how this incident will impact his future plans and his standing in the golf community.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the need for athletes, especially those with a high public profile, to be responsible when using prescription medications and to avoid distracted driving. It also raises concerns about Woods' well-being and the potential for substance abuse issues, which could have significant implications for his future in professional golf.