Prosecutors file charges against Tiger Woods for driving under the influence after Florida accident

Miami, USA – The Martin County State Attorney’s Office filed formal charges this Tuesday against golfer Tiger Woods for allegedly driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, in connection with a traffic accident that occurred on March 27 in Jupiter, Florida.

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The legal process began in a Stuart court, where the charges were read in the absence of the 50-year-old athlete, who did not appear at the hearing. According to police reports, on the day of the incident Woods was arrested showing signs of physical deterioration, including excessive sweating and lethargic behavior. Authorities indicated that the golfer was carrying two hydrocodone pills, a potent opioid pain reliever. Although he did not test positive for alcohol, he refused to submit to a urine test, which led to the charge of driving under the influence of substances.

Next hearing and current situation

The following hearing has been set for May 12th, a date on which it will be determined whether the case proceeds to trial or if both parties reach an agreement. Woods, who has pleaded not guilty, remains outside the United States and, according to his defense, will return in the coming days. After the accident, the golfer announced an indefinite break from his career to focus on his health. He is currently recovering from a ruptured Achilles tendon and his seventh back surgery, injuries that have kept him away from competition since 2024. Despite his inactivity, Woods had considered returning to the circuit at the Masters in Augusta, the first major of the season, which would have marked his return after almost two years away from the courses.