JUPITER ISLAND, Fla. — A Florida judge has approved golf icon Tiger Woods’ request to travel outside the United States for comprehensive inpatient treatment, just days after the 50-year-old was arrested on misdemeanor DUI charges stemming from a single-vehicle rollover crash.
Martin County Court Judge Darren Steele signed the order on Wednesday, April 1, 2026, during a teleconference hearing. The approval allows Woods to seek care at an overseas facility, with the State of Florida not opposing the motion.
Woods was arrested by Martin County Sheriff’s deputies on Friday, March 27, after his black Land Rover SUV clipped a pickup truck with a trailer on South Beach Road in Jupiter Island, causing the vehicle to flip onto its side. No one was seriously injured, but the crash resulted in an estimated $5,000 in property damage.
According to the arrest affidavit, Woods appeared lethargic, was sweating profusely, had bloodshot and glassy eyes, and showed signs of impairment during field sobriety tests. He told deputies he was looking at his phone and adjusting the radio at the time of the incident. A breath test showed a blood-alcohol content of 0.000, but Woods refused a urine test. Two hydrocodone pills were reportedly found in his pocket. He faces charges of DUI with property damage and refusal to submit to a lawful test. Woods has pleaded not guilty and requested a jury trial.
On Tuesday, March 31, Woods issued a statement announcing he would step away from competitive golf to focus on his health.
“I know and understand the seriousness of the situation I find myself in today,” Woods said. “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. I’m committed to taking the time needed to return in a healthier, stronger and more focused place, both personally and professionally.”
His attorney, Douglas Duncan, argued in the court filing that treatment abroad is “medically necessary” due to Woods’ complex clinical needs and the requirement for an intensive, highly individualized program in a controlled environment. The motion cited Woods’ treating physician, noting that his privacy has been “repeatedly compromised” in the U.S., making effective care difficult.
“Ongoing medical scrutiny and public exposure create significant barriers to his care and would result in setbacks and an inability to fully engage in treatment,” the filing stated.
This latest development means Woods will miss the 2026 Masters Tournament and other upcoming events, including declining the 2027 Ryder Cup captaincy. No details have been released about the specific location or duration of the treatment.
Woods, a 15-time major champion and one of golf’s most accomplished players, has faced multiple injury challenges and personal setbacks in recent years but has often mounted successful comebacks.
His legal team has stressed the need for privacy during this period to allow full engagement in the recovery program. Woods has agreed to return for future court hearings as required.
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