Tiger Woods pleads not guilty to DUI charges following rollover car crash in Florida

Posted : 31 March 2026

Tiger Woods has officially entered a written plea of not guilty to charges of driving under the influence in Martin County, Florida. The plea was filed on Tuesday following a single-vehicle rollover accident that occurred last Friday near his home on Jupiter Island. Legal documents indicate that the fifteen-time major champion intends to waive his personal appearance at an upcoming arraignment hearing.

Police reports released by the Martin County Sheriff’s Office provide a detailed account of the scene. Deputies discovered Woods in a lethargic state with bloodshot eyes and dilated pupils shortly after 2 p.m. on March 27. According to the incident report, authorities found two hydrocodone pills in the golfer’s pocket. Woods reportedly told officers he was distracted by his phone and radio before clipping a truck and flipping his Land Rover.

Sheriff William Budensiek stated that while Woods was cooperative, he refused to submit to a urine test at the scene. Although a Breathalyzer test confirmed no alcohol was in his system, the refusal to undergo further chemical testing carries specific penalties under Florida law. Investigators believe the athlete was impaired by medication rather than alcohol at the time of the collision.

This incident marks another setback for Woods, who has a well-documented history of vehicular issues and physical struggles. He previously pleaded guilty to reckless driving in 2017 following a similar encounter with prescription painkillers. Furthermore, he is still recovering from the long-term effects of a high-speed 2021 crash in California that nearly resulted in the amputation of his right leg.

The timing of the arrest is particularly impactful as the golf world prepares for the 90th Masters Tournament at Augusta National. Woods had been attempting to return to competitive form following a recent back surgery. While he was scheduled to unveil a new golf course project in Augusta on April 5, his participation in the tournament itself now remains highly uncertain.

The 50-year-old icon has struggled to regain his elite status on the PGA Tour, finishing only four full tournaments since 2021. This latest legal and physical hurdle adds significant pressure to his future in the sport. Representatives for Woods have not yet provided an official statement regarding the plea or his health status.

Tiger Woods pleads not guilty to DUI charges following rollover car crash in Florida

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