Tiger Woods Called Donald Trump During DUI Arrest, Bodycam Footage Reveals
In newly released police bodycam footage from Tiger Woods' recent DUI arrest, the golf legend is seen telling officers that he stepped away from the crash scene to make a phone call to former U.S. President Donald Trump. The video, released by the Martin County Sheriff's Department in Florida, captures a surreal moment as Woods informs a deputy about his conversation with the former commander-in-chief.
Details from the Bodycam Footage
The 17-minute clip shows Woods appearing sweaty and lethargic after his vehicle crashed in Jupiter, Florida. At one point, an officer asks Woods to return to the area near the police vehicle, to which Woods replies, "Yeah, I was just talking to the president." Earlier in the footage, Woods can be heard ending a phone call by saying, "All right, you got it. Thank you, bye," before placing his phone in his back pocket.
During the interaction, Woods explains the crash occurred because he was distracted while looking at his phone while attempting to overtake a truck. "I looked down at my phone, and all of a sudden … boom!" he tells the officer. The video also shows field sobriety tests being administered, followed by Woods being handcuffed and arrested. While in the police car, he remains silent but is seen yawning, fighting off hiccups, and appearing to briefly fall asleep.
Vanessa Trump Breaks Her Silence
Meanwhile, Woods' girlfriend, Vanessa Trump, has issued her first public statement regarding the incident. Trump, who is the ex-wife of Donald Trump Jr., shared an image on her Instagram Stories of herself snuggling with Woods, accompanied by the caption "Love you" with heart emojis. This comes after reports earlier in the week that she had issued an ultimatum to Woods, with an insider telling the Daily Mail that she was "pissed" over the incident and demanded he "get his s*** together" or she would leave him.
The source added that Trump is a "concerned girlfriend expressing boundaries" and that Woods needs to get things under control immediately. The White House did not immediately return requests for comment from various news outlets about Woods' claim of calling the former president.
Legal Proceedings and Woods' Response
Woods was charged with DUI and property damage following the rollover crash, which fortunately resulted in no injuries. He has since entered a not-guilty plea, waived his arraignment, and demanded a trial by jury. In a social media statement, Woods announced he is stepping away from public life to focus on his recovery and long-term health, effectively ending speculation about his participation in the upcoming Masters Tournament.
"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," Woods wrote. He added that he is committed to returning in a healthier and stronger state, both personally and professionally, and requested privacy for himself and his loved ones.
On Wednesday, Martin County Judge Darren Steele granted Woods' request to attend an out-of-country treatment facility for rehabilitation. According to court filings, Woods' lawyer, Douglas Duncan, stated that the recommendation is based on Woods' "complex clinical presentation" and the urgent need for a level of care that cannot be safely provided in the United States due to privacy concerns. Woods posted a $1,150 bond upon his release from Martin County jail last Friday, with no travel restrictions imposed.
