Tiger Woods allowed to leave the US by judge after DUI arrest

Jack Otway
Thu, 02 Apr 2026 06:11:45 +0000

Tiger Woods has been granted permission by a Florida court to travel abroad for intensive inpatient treatment following his arrest last week on suspicion of driving under the influence.

Judge Darren Steele approved the motion on Wednesday after a teleconference hearing in Martin County Court.

The 50-year-old golfer's lawyer, Douglas Duncan, argued that Woods requires an "intensive, highly individualised and medically integrated programme" that cannot be provided within the United States due to repeated breaches of his privacy.

Duncan stated that Woods's physician had recommended the overseas facility given his "complex clinical presentation" and the urgent nature of his care requirements.

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The attorney warned that continued media attention would create "significant barriers" to effective treatment.

The accident occurred last Friday when Woods was involved in a rollover crash in Martin County.

According to the sheriff's office report, Woods admitted he had been looking at his mobile phone and adjusting the radio when he failed to notice the vehicle ahead had slowed.

Deputies at the scene noted his movements were "lethargic and slow" and observed that his eyes appeared "bloodshot and glassy".

Officers discovered two hydrocodone pills, an opioid painkiller, in his possession and concluded he was unable to operate a vehicle safely.

Woods entered a not guilty plea on Tuesday to misdemeanor charges of DUI with property damage and refusing a lawful test.

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While a breathalyser detected no alcohol, he declined to provide a urine sample.

Woods announced on Tuesday via social media that he was "stepping away for a period of time to seek treatment and focus on my health."

"This is necessary in order for me to prioritise my well-being and work toward lasting recovery," he said.

His decision means he will not lead the American team at the 2027 Ryder Cup, as the PGA of America confirmed on Wednesday.

"We commend Tiger for prioritising his long-term health and deeply respect the courage it takes to make such a personal decision," the organisation stated.

The five-time Masters champion will also be absent from Augusta next week.

Fred Ridley, Augusta National chairman, said the club "fully support Tiger Woods as he focuses on his well-being."

"Although Tiger will not be joining us in person next week, his presence will be felt here in Augusta," Ridley added.

Woods has endured a lengthy history of physical setbacks throughout his career, undergoing seven back operations and more than 20 procedures on his leg.

He told officers at the scene that he walks with a limp and experiences ankle seizures.

In February 2021, the golfer required emergency surgery after suffering multiple compound fractures to his right leg and a shattered ankle in a rollover crash in California.

More recently, he underwent surgery for a ruptured Achilles tendon in March 2025, followed by another back operation in October.