The Masters ‘fully support’ Tiger Woods as he steps away to focus on health after DUI arrest
Augusta National Golf Club confirmed in a statement Tuesday night that Tiger Woods will not compete in next week’s The Masters tournament. Woods posted in a statement that he would be stepping away from golf to focus on his health and well-being following his not guilty plea to DUI charges for a rollover crash in Florida. Augusta National Chairman Fred Ridley says the Masters will support Woods during his time away.
"Augusta National Golf Club and the Masters Tournament 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 said in a statement. Woods made his first tournament appearance in over a year during the TGL Final Series on March 24.
He hadn’t said whether he would play at Augusta after he missed the Masters tournament last year. Three days after the finals, Woods crashed his car near his home on Jupiter Island and police arrested him on the suspicion of driving under the influence. An arrest affidavit said deputies found two hydrocodone pills in Wood’s pocket and that he showed “signs of impairment” following the rollover crash.
Woods told deputies he was looking down at his cellphone and changing the radio station before he crashed. Woods entered a not guilty plea to his charges on Tuesday and released a statement about his decision to step away from golf. “I know and understand the seriousness of the situation I find myself in today.
I am stepping away for a period of time to seek treatment and focus on my health. This is necessary 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.