The possibility of one day getting back out on the golf course and competing in the sport’s biggest events is motivating Tiger Woods as he undergoes treatment following his DUI arrest last month.
Woods was arrested and charged with DUI after being involved in a rollover collision in Jupiter, Fla., last month.
While a roadside test showed no trace of alcohol in his system, Woods was found to have loose pills in his pocket at the time.
But as the golf legend works his way towards recovery, a source told People that Woods “desperately” wants to return to action and it’s a driving motivation for him.
“He knows he needs to beat his issues and also deal with the pain from not only playing golf but also from his regular fitness schedule,” the source told the outlet. “People around him are supporting him, both personally and professionally. All of this is helping him deal with it enough to get through it.”
Another source told the outlet that Woods “still has golf in him,” and aims to once again compete in the Masters and other tournaments in the future, though things have become “harder” after suffering several leg and back injuries over the years.
“He just wants to get better in all areas of his life,” the source notes.
Another source also told People that Woods and girlfriend Vanessa Trump — the ex-wife of Donald Trump Jr. — are committed to his ongoing recovery.
“Tiger needed to do intensive therapy and his girlfriend Vanessa has been in favour of it,” the source said. “She still supports this and supports him. She loves him and knows that private treatment was necessary.”
People reported that a request for comment from a representative for Woods was not immediately returned.
Has Woods officially been charged with DUI?
Earlier this month, Woods was officially charged with DUI, roughly two weeks after was arrested after being in involved in a rollover car crash near his home in Jupiter, Fla.
According to TMZ, Woods’ charges of driving under the influence and refusing to take a chemical or physical test of his breath or urine were made official on Tuesday.
The outlet also reported that both charges are misdemeanours and that Woods could be “facing time behind bars.”
On Wednesday, the New York Post reported that prosecutors in Florida are seeking records in connection to medications that the star golfer has been using — including any warnings that came with them.
Martin County Florida prosecutors reportedly will issue a subpoena to Lewis Pharmacy on April 22 for information about every prescription drug that Woods has been given from Jan. 1, 2026, through March 27 — the date of his most recent car crash.
The court filing shows that prosecutors are attempting to ascertain whether any of Woods’ medications included warnings against “operating a motor vehicle while taking the prescription.”
Among the information requested is the “date and time prescription was filled, type of prescription, number of pills in each prescription, the dosage amount, and all special instructions.”
The Post reports that the notice was filed by Assistant State Attorney Nirlaine Tallandier Smartt on Tuesday and that Woods and his attorneys have 10 days to object.
What did bodycam footage of Woods’ arrest show?
Bodycam footage from police officers at the scene of Woods’ rollover crash and subsequent arrest released last week showed the golf legend looking dazed before appearing to fall asleep in a police car.
In the footage released by the Martin County Sheriff’s Office, Woods is first seen kneeling on the side of the road before being approached by an officer.
During the 17-minute clip, which also includes footage of Woods being transported to jail for processing, the 50-year-old star appears to be sweaty and lethargic, while moving unsteadily as he is questioned by police about the incident.
Woods shares his explanation as to how the crash occurred, admitting to being distracted and looking at his phone as he attempted to overtake a truck.
“I looked down at my phone, and all of a sudden … boom!” Woods tells the officer.
The clip also shows field sobriety tests being administered to Woods, followed by the 15-time major champion being handcuffed and arrested.
While Woods was in the back of the police vehicle, he remained silent, but can be seen yawning, fighting off hiccups, and appearing to briefly fall asleep.
Woods seeking treatment in Switzerland
Woods later announced via social media that he will be stepping away from public life to focus on his recovery and long-term health reportedly at a facility in Switzerland.
“I know and understand the seriousness of the situation I find myself in today. I am stepping away for a period of time to seek treatment and focus on my health. This is necessary in order for me to prioritize my well-being and work toward lasting recovery,” he wrote.
“I’m committed to taking the time needed to return in a healthier, stronger, and more focused place, personally and professionally. I appreciate your understanding and support, and ask for privacy for my family, loved ones and myself at this time.”
Martin County judge Darren Steele granted Woods a request to attend an “out of country treatment facility” for his rehab.
According to court filings, Woods’ lawyer, Douglas Duncan, stated that “based upon (Woods’) treating physician, the out of treatment facility recommendation is based upon (Woods’) complex clinical presentation and the urgent need for a level of care that cannot safely or effectively be done in the United States as his privacy has been repeatedly compromised.”
Woods also reportedly posted a US$1,150 bond when he was released from Martin County jail last Friday and no travel restrictions were issued.