Tiger Woods DUI arrest: PGA Tour star approved to leave Florida, reportedly seeking treatment abroad

Tiger Woods has reportedly been given permission to travel abroad by a Florida judge in order to seek treatment following last Friday’s arrest on suspicion of DUI, according to TMZ Sports’ Michael Babcock. This news comes after Woods publicly announced plans to step away from golf ahead of next week’s Masters Tournament in Augusta in order to better focus on his health.

Woods’ attorney Douglas Duncan cited privacy concerns in his appeal to the judge Tuesday and reportedly argued his famous client “couldn’t receive the care needed in the U.S. because his ‘privacy has been repeatedly compromised,'” according to court documents obtained by TMZ.

“I know and understand the seriousness of the situation I find myself in today,” Woods wrote in a statement posted to X/Twitter on Tuesday. “I am stepping away for a period of time to seek treatment and focus on my health. This is necessary in order 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. I appreciate your understanding and support, and ask for privacy for my family, loved ones and myself at this time.”

Woods pleaded not guilty to two misdemeanor charges of DUI and property damage on Tuesday stemming from a rollover car crash March 27 near his home in Jupiter Island, Fla. The 50-year-old Woods was reportedly found in possession of two hydrocodone pills and showed signs of impairment while appearing “lethargic, slow” with “bloodshot, glassy and ‘extremely dilated’” eyes, according to a police report reviewed by GOLF.com’s Sean Zak and TMZ. He blew a .000 on a breathalyzer at the scene, but later refused a urinalysis test, which led to the DUI arrest.

Following Woods’ announcement he was stepping away from the sport, Augusta National chairman Fred Ridley confirmed Woods will not be in attendance at The Masters next week. The golf legend had previously hinted at a potential return before last week’s accident after taking the past year off to recover from a ruptured Achilles in March 2025 and then undergoing a seventh back surgery in October.

“Augusta National Golf Club and the Masters Tournament fully support Tiger Woods as he focuses on his well-being,” Ridley wrote in a statement released Tuesday on X/Twitter. “Although Tiger will not be joining us in person next week, his presence will be felt here in Augusta.”

— On3’s Nick Schultz contributed to this report.