Tiger Woods was “embarrassed” and “ashamed” after being arrested on a DUI charge — the latest instance of that happening — following a car crash last month, according to People, which cited an anonymous source.
“He wants to fix his problems,” the anonymous source continued. “There is nobody more interested in seeing Tiger come out a winner again than Tiger. He doesn’t do well with defeat and embarrassing public situations.”
That echoed a similar sentiment to the one in Woods’ first public comments following the crash, when he wrote in a social media post that he knew and understood “the seriousness of the situation.”
The crash occurred when Woods hit a flatbed truck while traveling at a high rate of speed just minutes from his Florida home, and he was found with two hydrocodone pills at the scene of the crash while “sweating profusely” and being “lethargic and slow” at times, according to officers.
Woods has since left the country to seek treatment.
“I am stepping away for a period of time to seek treatment and focus on my health,” Woods continued in his first statement. “This is necessary in order for me to prioritize my well-being and work toward lasting recovery. I’m committed to taking the time needed to return in a healthier, stronger, and more focused place, both personally and professionally. I appreciate your understanding and support, and ask for privacy for my family, loved ones and myself at this time.”
It marked just the latest troubling arrest and accident in Woods’ career, complicating an image that — on the course — included his rise as one of the greatest golfers of all time.
Woods pleaded not guilty to the DUI charge.
A breathalyzer test showed no signs of alcohol.
Woods refused a urine test at the scene of the crash.
A 15-time major champion who hadn’t announced a decision on playing in the Masters prior to the crash, Woods hasn’t played in a PGA Tour event since the British Open in July 2024, but his absence at Augusta National still overshadowed the tournament this weekend — with golfers weighing in on his crash and decision to seek treatment.
“He’s not immune to it just because he can hit a golf ball really well,” Jason Day told reporters ahead of the tournament. “He’s had 25 to 30-something surgeries, and when you’re going through that many procedures, it’s painful coming out of those procedures. When I look at that, I look at it and go, ‘He’s just a human being like everyone else and we have struggles.’ It’s hard to see him go through what he’s going through, and especially under the microscope. It’s really difficult for me to go through that and watch him.
“I know that he’s getting the help now, which is good. I’m just hoping he comes out on the other side and is better.”