Golf icon Tiger Woods has been arrested and charged with driving under the influence (DUI) after a single-vehicle accident in Florida on Friday afternoon.
Martin County Sheriff John Budensiek said the crash happened shortly after 2pm local time when the 50-year-old, driving a Land Rover, tried to overtake a truck at high speed. The vehicle reportedly lost control and flipped onto its side.
According to the sheriff, Woods showed “signs of impairment” at the scene. He noted that while Woods passed a breathalyser test, he refused to provide a urine sample for further examination.
“When it came time for us to ask for a urinalysis test, he refused, and so he has been charged with DUI, property damage and refusal to submit to a lawful test,” Budensiek told reporters.
The accident occurred in Jupiter Island, Florida, with images from the scene showing the SUV lying on its side. There has been no immediate information regarding Woods’ physical condition.
This is not the first time Woods has been involved in driving-related legal issues. In 2017, he was arrested on suspicion of DUI in Florida and later pleaded guilty to reckless driving.
The latest incident comes five years after a serious crash in California in February 2021, where Woods sustained major leg injuries in a high-speed rollover. Since then, he has undergone several surgeries, including procedures on his Achilles tendon and back.
Despite these setbacks, Woods had been working toward a return to competitive golf. He recently participated in the TGL simulator golf league finals and had not ruled out competing in next month’s Masters Tournament, which he has won five times.
The 15-time major champion has not featured on the PGA Tour since missing the cut at the 2024 British Open.
The Martin County Sheriff’s Office is expected to hold a press conference at 5pm local time (2100 GMT) to provide further updates.
More information on Woods’ condition and the case is expected soon.