Tiger Woods, the highly regarded golfer, is facing a DUI charge following a rollover incident in Florida that occurred on March 27, 2024. After initially pleading not guilty, Woods has now taken steps to change his plea, as outlined in court documents obtained on September 1.
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The 50-year-old athlete’s attorney, Doug Duncan, submitted a motion to the Martin County circuit court that indicates Woods wishes to alter his plea, which previously stood at not guilty. This legal development comes as Woods prepares for a plea conference hearing scheduled for September 2.
The circumstances surrounding the crash involve Woods’ vehicle, a Land Rover, which flipped over while navigating a road in close proximity to his home in Jupiter Island, Florida. According to an arrest affidavit, Woods became involved in the accident while trying to overtake a lorry towing a pressure-washing trailer.
Following the incident, officers from the Martin County Sheriff’s Office reportedly discovered hydrocodone pills in Woods’ possession. A sobriety test conducted after the crash revealed signs of impairment, including “bloodshot and glassy” eyes and “extremely dilated” pupils, as noted in the probable cause affidavit.
Consequently, Woods faced multiple charges, including DUI, property damage, and refusal to submit to a lawful urine test. Court documents indicate that he entered a not guilty plea on March 31, the same day he announced his decision to step back from public life to seek treatment.
Following his arrest, Woods sought and received approval to leave the United States for rehabilitation. He underwent treatment at a facility in Zurich, Switzerland, before making a brief return to the U.S. on May 13. Sources reported that he came back to support his girlfriend, Vanessa Trump, during her battle with breast cancer.
In mid-June, Woods appeared back in Florida, noticeably recovered from his treatment. He marked his public return on June 23 at a PGA Tour event, where he took the opportunity to introduce PGA Tour CEO Brian Rolapp. During this event, Woods was involved in announcing a revised format for the Tour, set to launch in 2028.
Woods has a history of personal struggles related to substance abuse. In 2021, he endured a serious rollover crash in California that nearly resulted in the amputation of his leg. Additionally, in 2017, he was arrested for DUI after being found asleep at the wheel on Jupiter Island; he later pleaded guilty to reckless driving. A 2009 incident also saw him receive a citation for careless driving after crashing into a tree.
The latest developments in Woods’ legal situation highlight the ongoing challenges he faces, both personally and professionally. As he navigates this DUI charge and its potential ramifications, the golfing world remains concerned for the athlete’s well-being and future in the sport.
For those struggling with substance abuse, urgent help is available through the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) helpline, which can be reached at 1-800-662-HELP.