Tiger Woods, 50, steps away from golf to prioritize health after flipping his SUV and facing DUI charges in Jupiter, Florida. Golf legend Jack Nicklaus expresses deep concern over Woods’ long-term painkiller use, stating he may be “too far down the line” and in need of professional help.
Nicklaus Offers Support Amid Concerns
The 86-year-old Nicklaus, holder of 18 major championships, voices sympathy for Woods, who has 15 majors. “Sometimes you get too far down the line and you just need somebody to help you,” Nicklaus says. “I think he probably needs some help. And we all want to help him. We’re all on his side.”
Nicklaus, a longtime acquaintance living near Woods in North Palm Beach, adds, “Obviously, I feel bad for Tiger. I like Tiger. I don’t just like him, I like him a lot. He’s been taking painkillers for a long time and I don’t know how much pain he’s in. But I don’t think he’d be taking them if he didn’t need them.”
Details of the Florida Crash
Officers responded to Woods’ overturned Range Rover on a residential road with a 30 mph limit. Authorities describe him as dazed, sweaty, limping, and stumbling during field sobriety tests. He carried two opioid pills, showed impairment signs, and refused a urine test despite a negative breathalyzer for alcohol.
Martin County Sheriff John Budensiek notes Woods drove at high speeds, attempting to pass a pressure cleaner truck. Police bodycam footage captures Woods yawning, hiccupping, and briefly falling asleep in the patrol car. He faces charges of DUI, property damage, and failure to submit to testing.
Private Rehab in Switzerland
Woods heads to a discreet facility in Zurich, Switzerland, following a judge’s approval for travel. His private jet lands there shortly after his statement on seeking treatment. These centers offer exclusive one-client options for maximum privacy.
Girlfriend’s Public Backing
Vanessa Trump, Woods’ girlfriend, posts a supportive Instagram message: “Love you,” alongside a photo of them embracing. Sources indicate she urges top-tier care to prevent future issues.
History of Accidents
This marks Woods’ fourth crash since 2009: a 2009 fire hydrant incident amid personal turmoil; a 2017 DUI arrest while asleep at the wheel, blamed on prescription meds; and a 2021 high-speed rollover in California causing severe leg injuries.
