Tiger Woods is addressing his DUI arrest following an accident and says he will take some time away from the spotlight to seek treatment.
“I know and understand the seriousness of the situation I find myself in today,” Woods said in a statement. “I am stepping away for a period of time to seek treatment and focus on my health.”
He continued, “This is necessary in order for me to prioritize my well-being and work toward lasting recovery.”
The golfer said he was “committed to taking the time needed to return in a healthier, stronger, and more focused place, both personally and professionally. I appreciate your understanding and support, and ask for privacy for my family, loved ones, and myself at this time.”
Woods was involved in a rollover accident on Friday, March 27, near his home in Jupiter, Florida. He was arrested on the scene for suspicion of driving under the influence.
The pro golfer’s statement comes after he pleaded not guilty to driving under the influence. His plea came hours after Martin County Sheriff’s Office released an affidavit with details on the incident that led to the DUI charges.
One of the deputies who was at the scene described Woods as “sweating profusely” with “lethergic and slow” moments. Another officer claimed to have found two hydrocodone pills in the athlete’s pants pocket.
“I asked Woods if he consumed any type of alcoholic beverage to drink today to which he stated, ‘none.’ I asked Woods if he consumed any prescription medication to which he stated, ‘I take a few.’ Woods advised he takes medication for high blood pressure, cholesterol, Ibuprofen, and Vicodin,” read the affidavit. “Woods advised he took his prescription medication earlier in the morning. While speaking to Woods, I observed him to be extremely alert and talkative.”
According to the affidavit, Woods insisted he was “looking down at his cell phone and changing the radio station and did not notice the vehicle in front of him had slowed down” when his car swerved and clipped a truck dragging a pressure cleaner trailer on a two-lane road with a 30mph speed limit.