Former US PGA champion Jason Day says Tiger Woods was “a little bit selfish” to drive under the influence and “put other people in harm’s way”.

Woods, 50, was arrested and charged after clipping a truck and rolling his car near his home in Florida last month. The 15-time major champion, who was also charged with property damage and refusal to submit to a lawful test, was found with two white pills in his pocket, which were identified as hydrocodone – an opioid used to treat pain. He submitted a written plea of not guilty via his lawyers last week and was granted permission by a judge to seek treatment overseas.

READ MORE: See why Tiger Woods declines US Ryder Cup captain role in 2027While Australian Day criticized Woods’ actions, the 38-year-old said he also has sympathy for him. “He was my hero – he is my hero,” said Day, who is preparing to take part in the Masters, which starts on Thursday.”The reason why I play golf is because of this tournament and Tiger.” It’s hard to see him go through what he’s going through, and especially under the microscope… it must be hard to be who he is and have everything, everyone look on, kind of down on him.

“The only thing that I don’t understand is that it’s a little bit selfish of him to drive and put other people in harm’s way, as well. “But when you’re the player that he was and how strong-willed he is, he thinks he can do almost anything, and that’s probably why he’s probably driving and a little bit under the influence.”

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In the arrest affidavit, an officer wrote Woods was “sweating profusely”, his pupils were “extremely dilated” and his movements were “lethargic and slow”.

Five-time Masters champion Woods, whose last victory at Augusta came in 2019, will not be at Augusta National for the season’s first major, and he has also turned down the role of United States Ryder Cup captain next year in Ireland.

Tiger Woods, once hailed as America’s golden child in golf, is back in the spotlight following his fourth major car accident in Jupiter, Florida. This mishap occurred just before the Masters, where Woods is slated to play, despite being 50 years old and battling multiple injuries.

Key Takeaways:

This accident marks his second involving charges of driving under the influence of alcohol.
The incident raises doubts about Woods’ readiness for the upcoming Masters.
Golf enthusiasts are eagerly awaiting further updates on Woods’ health and career.

Although this is not Woods’ first accident, its timing is critical as it comes shortly before a major tournament he was eyeing. With advancing age and a history of numerous injuries, the crash serves as a reminder of the risks he faces.

The event occurred mere weeks before Woods was expected to compete at the Masters, heightening concerns about his physical condition. Fans speculate whether he can return to peak performance after this incident.

Woods’ involvement in a crash related to driving under the influence adds to his mixed public reputation. Nevertheless, his status as a golf icon remains strong despite facing various hurdles throughout his career.

Since winning the Masters at age 21, Woods has navigated a dramatic career filled with ups and downs. This accident adds another chapter to his complex life, which continues to captivate the golf world.

Tiger Woods has turned down the role of United States Ryder Cup captain next year in Ireland, the PGA of America has announced.

The 50-year-old was arrested and charged with driving under the influence after clipping a truck and rolling his car in Florida on Friday.

Woods, who was also charged with property damage and refusal to submit to a lawful test, submitted a written plea of not guilty via his lawyers on Tuesday.

Following the crash, the 15-time major champion said he is stepping away from professional golf to seek treatment and concentrate on his health.

He has been given permission by a judge to seek treatment overseas.

“We commend Tiger for prioritizing his long-term health and deeply respect the courage it takes to make such a personal decision,” the PGA of America said.

READ MORE: Why Tiger Woods was banned from Players Championship was due to…

Tiger Woods’ Masters hopes linger as DUI scrutiny clouds his latest comeback bid

The timing could hardly be more complicated for Tiger Woods. Just days after signaling progress in his return to competitive golf, the 15-time major champion must now juggle renewed Masters ambitions with the fallout from a high-profile arrest.

Authorities in Florida arrested Woods after a rollover crash. He now faces charges of driving under the influence, property damage, and refusing a lawful test.

Investigators say Woods’ vehicle struck a trailer before flipping. Despite the severity of the crash, no one suffered injuries.

This legal setback alone could derail any athlete’s short-term plans. For Woods, it comes at an already uncertain moment in his career. The 50-year-old recently admitted the physical toll of decades in professional golf, saying, “This body doesn’t recover like it did when I was 24 or 25.”

In recent years, injuries have shaped Woods’ schedule. Since his historic win at the Masters Tournament in 2019, he has managed multiple surgeries and recovery periods. A serious car crash in 2021 further limited his appearances.

Still, Augusta remains within reach.

Woods enjoys a unique relationship with the Masters. As a past champion, he holds a lifetime exemption to compete. If he feels physically ready and faces no restrictions, the decision to play rests entirely with him.

Before this incident, Woods had steadily built momentum toward another appearance. He trained carefully and hinted at a possible return. His presence alone draws global attention and boosts the tournament’s profile, regardless of his performance.

Now, new challenges complicate that path.

The legal case remains unresolved, and the incident may disrupt his preparation. At the same time, public scrutiny has intensified again—something Woods has faced throughout his career.

Authorities reported signs of impairment at the scene, though a breath test showed no alcohol. Investigators suspect medication may have played a role. This detail mirrors his 2017 arrest, which Woods later linked to prescribed drugs.

That history adds complexity to the current situation. Woods has built his legacy not only on dominance but also on resilience. Time and again, he has battled back from injuries and personal setbacks.

Now, he faces another test—one that could shape both his comeback and his legacy.

Tiger Woods Says His Lingering Back Issues Sometimes Leave Him Struggling ‘to Just Move Around’

Tiger Woods Opens Up About Ongoing Back Struggles

Tiger Woods has admitted that persistent back problems continue to affect his daily movement, casting doubt over his return to competitive golf.

Weeks after suggesting he might compete at The Masters, Woods struck a more cautious tone while speaking to reporters on March 17.

“I’ve been working on it,” Woods said. “Sometimes I have good days, sometimes I have bad days. Disc replacement is not a lot of fun.”

Recovery Challenges After Surgery

Woods compared his situation to that of fellow golfer Will Zalatoris, who recently underwent a similar procedure.

“Will went through it — he had two levels done — and it takes time,” Woods explained. “I’ve had a lot of procedures before this, so my body doesn’t heal like it did when I was 24.”

He acknowledged the physical toll more bluntly: “It doesn’t bounce back the same.”

‘Some Days It’s Hard to Move’

Woods described the inconsistency of his recovery, noting how dramatically his condition can change day to day.

“I have good days when I can pretty much do anything,” he said. “And other days where it’s hard to just move around.”

The 15-time major champion also revealed that repeated injuries have slowed his comeback efforts.

“I’ve been trying to play in these events and come back, but it just hasn’t worked out,” Woods said. “Last year was tough with injuries, and then I had two back operations. It’s been a rough stretch.”

Family Support Remains Strong

Away from the course, Woods continues to support his son, Charlie Woods, in his rising golf career.

On February 24, Woods reunited with his ex-wife Elin Nordegren to celebrate Charlie’s state championship title at The Benjamin School in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida. The family posed together for photos during the ceremony.

Charlie Woods Commits to Florida State

Just weeks earlier, Charlie announced his commitment to play collegiate golf at Florida State University, marking a major step in his young career.

Outlook on The Masters

While Woods has not completely ruled out playing at The Masters, his latest comments suggest that his participation remains uncertain. For now, his focus stays on managing his health and finding consistency in his recovery.

Why Tiger Woods was banned from Players Championship was due to little-known rule

Tiger Woods Ruled Out of 2026 Players Championship

The 2026 Players Championship will take place this week at TPC Sawgrass in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida. Defending champion Rory McIlroy returns after defeating J. J. Spaun in a playoff last year.

Several top golfers will compete for the title, including Scottie Scheffler, Tommy Fleetwood, Collin Morikawa, Xander Schauffele, Akshay Bhatia and Justin Rose.

However, legendary golfer Tiger Woods will not participate in the tournament. He continues to recover from back surgery and has not confirmed a return date.

Entry Rules Keep Woods Out

Even if Woods were fit, he still would not qualify for this year’s Players Championship. Tournament rules require players to have at least one PGA Tour victory between last year and this year’s event. Players must also have won a major championship within the last five years.

Woods last won a major in 2019 when he captured the Masters Tournament. Because of that timeline, he does not meet the current eligibility requirements for the event at TPC Sawgrass.

Players React to Woods’ Absence

Fleetwood expressed surprise at the rule that keeps Woods out of the tournament.

“Is Tiger not eligible for this event? That’s unbelievable. I would love Tiger Woods to play. I can’t believe he’s not eligible,” Fleetwood said.

He added that Woods should have the chance to play anywhere in the world if he wants.

Thomas also voiced support for Woods’ participation.

“I’m always going to be for him playing. For the betterment of golf and the tournament, I don’t think anybody would be against it,” Thomas said.

Possible Return at Augusta

Woods previously said he hopes to return at the Masters Tournament in April at Augusta National Golf Club.

When reporters asked if he would compete there, Woods responded cautiously.

“I don’t know. Whether it’s a regular tour, a senior tour, or a member-guest, I don’t know.”

TGL League Continues to Grow

Woods remains active in the indoor golf league TGL. He helped create the league through TMRW Sports alongside sports executive Mike McCarley and McIlroy in partnership with the PGA Tour.

TGL features simulated indoor golf competitions and continues to attract many of the sport’s biggest names.

Kim Delivers Stunning Hole-in-One

During a recent TGL match, Jupiter Links—featuring Woods, Tom Kim, Max Homa and Kevin Kisner—faced Bay Golf Club, led by Ludvig Åberg and Shane Lowry.

Jupiter Links trailed 6–5 on the penultimate hole. Kim needed something special to keep his team’s playoff hopes alive.

The 23-year-old calmly delivered. He struck a smooth wedge shot that flew past the flag, spun back and rolled straight into the hole for a hole-in-one.

Before hitting the shot, Kim activated “The Hammer,” which doubled the hole’s value. The dramatic moment marked only the second hole-in-one in TGL history.

Woods and his teammates erupted in celebration as soon as the ball dropped. Woods hugged Kim and pumped his fist in the air.

After the match, Woods described the moment as the “best indoor experience ever.”

Jupiter Links Advance to Playoffs

Kim’s incredible shot secured victory for Jupiter Links. The team will now face McIlroy’s Boston Common in the TGL playoffs.

Woods continues to recover from a ruptured left Achilles tendon he suffered in March 2025. Because of that injury, he is unlikely to compete in the playoff match. Still, he has promised to attend and support his team.