Tiger Woods granted permission for treatment abroad after DUI arrest
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, reports BritPanorama.
Judge Darren Steele approved the motion on Wednesday after a teleconference hearing in Martin County Court. The golfer’s attorney, 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 further stated that Woods’s physician had recommended the overseas facility given his “complex clinical presentation” and the urgent nature of his care requirements. The attorney warned that continued media attention would create “significant barriers” to effective treatment.
The incident occurred last Friday, when Woods was involved in a rollover crash in Martin County. According to the sheriff’s office report, he admitted to looking at his mobile phone and adjusting the radio when he failed to notice that the vehicle ahead had slowed. Deputies at the scene noted his movements were “lethargic and slow,” and they observed that his eyes appeared “bloodshot and glassy.”
Officers discovered two hydrocodone pills 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. While a breathalyser detected no alcohol, he declined to provide a urine sample.
On Tuesday, Woods announced via social media that he was “stepping away for a period of time to seek treatment and focus on my health.” He stated, “This is necessary in order for me to prioritise my well-being and work toward lasting recovery.”
Woods’ decision means he will not lead the American team at the 2027 Ryder Cup, as confirmed by the PGA of America on Wednesday. The organisation commended Woods for prioritising his long-term health and respected the courage it takes to make such a personal decision. He will also be absent from Augusta next week.
Fred Ridley, Augusta National chairman, expressed the club’s full support for Woods as he focuses on his well-being, noting, “Although Tiger will not be joining us in person next week, his presence will be felt here in Augusta.”
Woods has faced a lengthy history of physical setbacks throughout his career, having undergone seven back surgeries and more than 20 procedures on his leg. At the scene of the incident, he informed officers that he walks with a limp and experiences ankle seizures.
The last few years have offered a sobering reminder of the fragility not just of careers but of lives in the high-pressure sphere of professional sport, where the public eye remains unforgiving. As the golfing world awaits his return, the focus remains on whether discretion and care will win out over the relentless scrutiny of fame.
