WASHINGTON.- Tiger Woods received the support of the great institutions of American golf, including the circuit PGA and the Augusta Mastersafter he announced his temporary departure from the sport to work on his health.
The 50-year-old American star was arrested on Friday after causing a traffic accident near his residence on Jupiter Island, Florida, in which there were no injuries.
Woods, who has already suffered other road mishaps in his career, is accused of driving under the influence of substances, among other charges, and at the time of the accident he was carrying two hydrocodone painkiller pills, according to the police report.
The golfer, who suffers consequences from his numerous back and leg operations, refused to perform a urine test and the agents at the scene observed that his eyes were “bloodshot and glassy”, in addition to the fact that he “limped” and “wobbled” when he walked.
Following the release of the police report, Woods pleaded not guilty to the charges and announced on Tuesday his temporary retirement from golf “to seek treatment.”
“This is necessary so I can prioritize my well-being and work toward a lasting recovery,” he said in a message on X.
Although he had been inactive since 2024, the controversial Woods did not rule out returning to competition next week at the Augusta Masters, the scene of many of his great feats as a professional.
“His presence will be felt here in Augusta”
The organizers of the emblematic Grand Slam tournament, which traditionally holds a previous dinner with all its champions, confirmed the withdrawal of the five-time American champion.
“Although Tiger will not be with us in person next week, his presence will be felt here in Augusta,” said the course president Augusta National, Fred Ridley.
“Augusta National Golf Club and the Masters fully support Tiger Woods as he focuses on his well-being,” he stressed.
“Tiger continues to have our full support as he takes this important step,” the PGA Tour agreed. “He is a legend of our sport (…) but above all, Tiger is a person, and our priority is his health and well-being.”
