Tiger Woods Faces DUI Charges After Florida Car Crash
Golf legend Tiger Woods has been arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence following a serious car crash in Florida last week. The incident occurred near his home on Jupiter Island, where his Range Rover overturned after colliding with a truck.
Police Discover Prescription Pills During Search
According to an arrest affidavit released by Martin County Sheriff's Office, officers found two hydrocodone pills in Woods' trouser pocket during a search following the crash. Hydrocodone is a powerful prescription opioid typically used to treat severe chronic pain.
Woods, 50, told investigators he was looking down at his mobile phone and didn't notice the truck in front had slowed down to make a turn. The 15-time major champion stated he had not consumed alcohol that day, and breath tests confirmed zero alcohol in his system.
Physical Signs of Impairment Noted by Officers
Law enforcement officials documented concerning physical symptoms during their interaction with Woods. A sheriff's deputy reported the golfer had "bloodshot and glassy" eyes with "extremely dilated" pupils. Woods was described as "sweating profusely" and appeared "lethargic and slow" according to the official affidavit.
When questioned about prescription medication use, Woods acknowledged taking "a few" medications but refused to provide a urine sample that could have been tested for drugs and medications in his system.
History of Traffic Incidents and Legal Troubles
This marks the second DUI-related arrest for Woods, who previously faced similar charges in 2017 when police found him asleep at the wheel of his car. He ultimately pleaded guilty to reckless driving after tests revealed five prescription drugs in his system.
The golf champion's traffic history includes a 2009 incident where he crashed into a fire hydrant outside his home, an event that led to admissions of infidelity and the eventual dissolution of his seven-year marriage.
Recent Return to Golf and Personal Life Impact
Woods had recently returned to competitive golf for the first time in over a year, participating in the final night of the TGL season just days before the crash. His current girlfriend, Vanessa Trump, former wife of Donald Trump Jr., is reportedly furious about the latest incident.
The golfer's participation in the upcoming Masters Tournament, scheduled to begin on April 9, remains uncertain following his arrest and the eight hours he spent in jail before being released.
Previous Serious Accident and Recovery
This latest crash comes just over three years after Woods suffered multiple leg injuries in a serious California car accident in February 2021, which required emergency surgery. The golfer has faced significant physical challenges throughout his career, including multiple back surgeries that have impacted his ability to compete consistently.
As the investigation continues, questions remain about Woods' future in professional golf and the potential legal consequences he may face from this latest traffic incident.
