American golf superstar Tiger Woods announced on Tuesday that he would be withdrawing for a while “in order to undergo treatment”, after his arrest on Friday in Florida linked to a road accident.
“I am taking a step back for a moment to undergo treatment and focus on my health. This is necessary so that I can prioritize my well-being and work towards a lasting recovery,” Tiger Woods wrote in a statement posted on social media, after pleading not guilty Tuesday to “driving under the influence.”
Seriously injured in his right leg in an accident in 2021, the 50-year-old champion was arrested Friday by Martin County police, his car on its side, after hitting a truck he was trying to overtake on a two-lane road.
The American escaped the accident without serious injuries, but was arrested for refusing to submit to a urine test after receiving a negative alcohol test.
Woods was charged with “driving under the influence,” which in the United States can include alcohol or drugs, “damage to property” and “refusing to submit to a test.”
He was detained for eight hours before being released in the evening.
The golfer pleaded not guilty Tuesday in Martin County Court. He asked to be tried by jury in the case.
For lack of exploits on the greens, Tiger Woods continues to make the headlines, but more often for his injuries or road trips.
The former world No.1 with 15 victories in Majors has not played in a competition since July 2024. A year ago, he had surgery for a ruptured left Achilles tendon, casting a shadow over the rest of his career.
He had another back operation last October.
His participation in the next Masters, the most prestigious tournament of the season which will be played from April 9 to 12 in Augusta (Georgia, United States), was still hoped for by the golf community in recent days.
