The Masters respond with official statement on Tiger Woods after DUI crash

April 3, 2026 Oliver Obel

Tiger Woods will not play in next week’s Masters Tournament following his recent arrest on DUI-related charges, with Augusta National chairman Fred Ridley offering public backing for the former champion.

“Augusta National Golf Club and the Masters Tournament fully support Tiger Woods as he focuses on his well-being,” Ridley said in a statement released by the club.

“Although Tiger will not be joining us in person next week, his presence will be felt here in Augusta.”

https://twitter.com/TheMasters/status/2039149230292406694

The 15-time major winner had been working toward a possible return while recovering from a ruptured Achilles tendon and additional back surgery, and had not ruled out competing at Augusta before last week’s incident.

According to police reports, Woods was arrested Friday after a crash on a residential street in Florida. Officers said he appeared “lethargic and slow” with “extremely dilated” pupils, and reported finding hydrocodone, an opioid pain medication, in his possession.

He faces charges including driving under the influence, property damage and refusal to submit to a lawful test after declining a urinalysis. Woods has pleaded not guilty and was released on bail after several hours in custody.

In a statement posted on social media, Woods acknowledged the seriousness of the situation and said he would step away from competition.

“I know and understand the seriousness of the situation I find myself in today,” he said. “I am stepping away for a period of time to seek treatment and focus on my health.”

He added that he intends to return “in a healthier, stronger, and more focused place, both personally and professionally.”

The incident is the latest in a series of driving-related cases involving Woods over the past decade. He crashed his vehicle near his home in 2009, was arrested in 2017 after being found asleep at the wheel, and suffered significant leg injuries in a separate crash in 2021.

Woods has not played a major championship since The Open in 2024, though he recently took part in an indoor league event. He last competed at Augusta that same year, finishing 60th after making the cut.

His absence removes one of the tournament’s most recognizable figures and adds uncertainty ahead of the Masters, an event where his presence has long drawn global attention.

Sources: Augusta National Golf Club statement; police reports; Tiger Woods social media