JUPITER ISLAND, Fla. — Tiger Woods was arrested Friday and charged with driving under the influence after his vehicle rolled over on Florida’s Jupiter Island, authorities said. The incident, which occurred on South Beach Road, raises new questions about the golf legend’s health and well-being as he continues to navigate a comeback trail marked by multiple surgeries and persistent physical challenges. The arrest of Woods, a globally recognized figure, quickly drew national attention and prompted a response from former President Donald Trump, a longtime friend.
According to the Martin County Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded to a single-vehicle crash around 3:45 p.m. Local time. Woods was driving a 2021 Genesis GV80 when he attempted to overtake a pickup truck hauling a pressure cleaner trailer. Sheriff John M. Budensiek explained at a news conference that the truck driver was attempting a left turn and Woods’ vehicle clipped the truck, resulting in the SUV rolling onto its side. Woods was able to exit the vehicle himself, and neither he nor the other driver sustained injuries.
While a breathalyzer test administered at the scene did not detect alcohol in Woods’ system, deputies noted “signs of impairment.” Woods refused to submit to a urine test, leading to his arrest on charges of driving under the influence with property damage and refusal to submit to a lawful test, both misdemeanors. He was transported to the Martin County Jail, where he was held for at least eight hours, as is standard procedure, before being released on bond. A booking photo released by the Sheriff’s Office shows Woods looking composed, though visibly shaken.
Tiger Woods’ booking photo. (Courtesy of Martin County Sheriff’s Office)
Sheriff Budensiek emphasized that Woods would not receive preferential treatment. “We’re the sheriff’s office,” he said. “We know we arrested a high-profile figure. But it doesn’t matter who you are; if you break the law, we’re going to follow the law.” He added that Woods would be housed in a secure location within the jail, separate from the general inmate population, to ensure his safety.
A History of Physical Challenges
This incident comes just days after Woods, 50, completed his first competitive event in months, participating in the TGL Finals in nearby Palm Beach Gardens. His return to professional golf has been repeatedly delayed by a series of debilitating injuries and surgeries. In April 2025, Woods underwent surgery to repair a torn Achilles tendon, and in October of the same year, he underwent lumbar disc replacement surgery – his seventh back surgery since 2014. The PGA Tour has documented Woods’ extensive medical history, highlighting the physical toll his career has taken on his body.
The circumstances surrounding Friday’s arrest are particularly sensitive given Woods’ recent medical procedures and the potential impact of pain medication on his cognitive abilities. Sheriff Budensiek acknowledged that Woods informed deputies about his surgeries and injuries, stating that these factors were taken into consideration during the roadside investigation. However, he maintained that the deputies conducted thorough field sobriety tests and ultimately determined probable cause for arrest.
Echoes of a Past Incident
The crash bears a striking resemblance to a single-car accident involving Woods in February 2021, approximately 20 miles south of Los Angeles. In that incident, Woods suffered severe injuries to his right leg, requiring multiple surgeries and an extended period of rehabilitation. An investigation by the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department determined that Woods was driving at a “relatively greater speed than normal” when his SUV veered off the road and rolled over. The Los Angeles Times reported on the findings of that investigation, which did not result in criminal charges.
The similarities between the two incidents have prompted speculation about potential contributing factors, including the ongoing effects of his previous injuries and the possibility of medication use. However, authorities have not yet released any information regarding the specific cause of Friday’s crash beyond the initial assessment of impairment.
Reaction and Uncertain Future
News of the arrest quickly reached former President Donald Trump, who has a well-documented friendship with Woods. Trump addressed the incident briefly, stating, “I feel so badly. He’s got some difficulty.” He also noted Woods’ relationship with Vanessa Trump, the ex-wife of Donald Trump Jr., calling Woods “an amazing person, amazing man.”
Asked about Tiger Woods’ arrest, President Trump said he feels “so badly” for Woods, who is dating his son’s ex-wife. pic.twitter.com/q9q9q9q9q9
— CSPAN (@cspan) March 27, 2026
As of Saturday morning, Woods has not issued a public statement regarding the arrest. His participation in the upcoming 2026 Masters Tournament, which begins April 8, remains uncertain. Woods has a remarkable record at Augusta National, with five victories and a streak of 24 consecutive cuts made, but he has not competed there since 2024. He was still scheduled to attend the Champions Dinner and participate in events surrounding the reopening of The Patch, the short course he designed at Augusta National.
The Martin County Sheriff’s Office has stated that the investigation into the crash is ongoing. Woods is scheduled to appear in court at a later date to address the charges against him. The outcome of this case, and the potential impact on his already challenging comeback, remains to be seen.
If you or someone you know is struggling with substance abuse, please reach out for help. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) National Helpline is available 24/7 at 1-800-662-HELP (4357).
This represents a developing story. We will continue to update this article as more information becomes available. Share your thoughts in the comments below.
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