Tiger Woods announced on Tuesday that he is taking time off to seek treatment and prioritize his health after pleading not guilty to DUI charges related to a rollover accident in Florida last week.

The legendary golfer, a 15-time major champion, was arrested last Friday after his Land Rover flipped over on a two-lane road near his home in Jupiter Island. Fortunately, there were no injuries, and Woods was released on bail later that evening.

In a statement on social media, Woods acknowledged the gravity of his situation: "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 for me to prioritize my well-being and work toward lasting recovery."

Woods, 50, expressed his commitment to taking the necessary time off to return in a "healthier, stronger, and more focused place, both personally and professionally," and requested privacy during this time.

Following Woods' announcement, Augusta National Golf Club confirmed that the five-time Masters champion would not be present for the upcoming tournament.

Woods Pleads Not Guilty

Court documents filed on Tuesday reveal that Woods has pleaded not guilty to the DUI charges and has requested a jury trial. His next court date is set for May 5, but he is not required to appear in person for any proceedings prior to the trial, according to court records.

A probable-cause affidavit obtained by Reuters indicated that Woods admitted to looking down at his phone and not noticing that the vehicle in front of him had slowed down. The affidavit also stated that Woods had two hydrocodone pills in his pocket and displayed signs of lethargy, sweating, and dilated pupils during the interaction with authorities.

When questioned about taking prescription medication, Woods reportedly acknowledged that he had taken some earlier that morning.

Woods' manager did not respond immediately when asked for comments regarding the details in the affidavit.

Looking at Cell Phone Before Crash

A Martin County Sheriff's deputy reported that Woods admitted to looking at his cell phone and changing the radio station before the March 27 collision, which prevented him from noticing the slowing truck ahead of him. The officer observed Woods limping and stumbling, and Woods mentioned he had undergone seven back surgeries and more than 20 leg operations.

The deputy noted that Woods was "extremely alert and talkative" but also had "hiccups throughout the entire investigation." Woods informed the officer that he has a limp and that his ankle seizes while walking. The deputy conducting field sobriety tests concluded that Woods' normal faculties were impaired, making him unable to operate a vehicle safely.

Woods to Miss Year’s First Major

Woods had recently returned to competitive golf for the first time since missing the cut at the British Open in July 2024 when he participated in the TGL Finals, an indoor league requiring less walking than traditional golf. After the match, Woods had been preparing for the Masters Tournament scheduled for April 9-12.

Although he initially intended to attend the Champions Dinner at Augusta National, the club confirmed on Tuesday that Woods will not be present at all during the year’s first major tournament.

"Augusta National Golf Club and the Masters Tournament fully support Tiger Woods as he focuses on his well-being," said Augusta National Chairman Fred Ridley in a statement. "Although Tiger will not be joining us next week, his presence will be felt here in Augusta."

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