Golf legend Tiger Woods has admitted to being distracted and was found with two opioid pills in his pocket during his recent rollover crash in Florida, according to a police affidavit obtained by media outlets. The incident, which occurred last Friday in Jupiter, Florida, has resulted in DUI and property damage charges against the 50-year-old athlete.
Police Investigation Details
In the arrest affidavit, which was reviewed by TMZ and ESPN, police reported discovering two loose, white pills marked "M367" in Woods' left pants pocket following the crash. Laboratory analysis confirmed the pills were hydrocodone, a powerful semi-synthetic opioid medication typically prescribed for severe pain management.
During questioning, Woods acknowledged taking prescription medication earlier that morning, stating "I take a few" when asked about his medication use. Officers noted that Woods displayed "bloodshot and glassy" eyes with "extremely dilated" pupils at the scene. He appeared "lethargic and slow" and was "sweating profusely" following the accident.
Crash Circumstances Revealed
The affidavit provides new details about the moments leading up to the collision. Woods told investigators he was distracted just before the crash, looking down at his phone and changing the radio station when his Land Rover clipped a pressure cleaning truck. The golfer explained he didn't realize the truck in front of him had slowed down.
According to Martin County Sheriff John Budensiek, Woods was attempting to pass the truck at high speed when he swerved to avoid a collision but clipped the back end of the truck's trailer. This caused his SUV to list to the side before rolling onto its driver side. Fortunately, no injuries were reported in the incident.
Physical Condition and Testing
While Woods agreed to take field sobriety tests, officers observed he was "limping and stumbling to the right" and appeared to favor an injured leg. He was wearing a compression sock over his right knee at the time. Woods attributed his mobility issues to his extensive medical history, including seven back surgeries and more than twenty operations on his leg.
The golf champion has faced numerous health challenges throughout his career, with his most recent major victory coming at the 2019 Masters Tournament following multiple comebacks from injury.
Questions About Transportation Arrangements
The incident has raised questions about why Woods, given his financial resources and medical history, doesn't employ a personal driver. According to People magazine, Woods has refused to hire driving services due to privacy concerns. An insider told the publication that Woods "doesn't want anyone to watch over him or know what he is doing" and "thinks he is fine to drive."
This perspective appears to contrast with the reality of the recent incident, where distraction and medication factors contributed to the crash. The golfer's transportation choices have become a topic of discussion among fans and commentators following the accident.
Legal Proceedings and Public Reaction
Woods has been formally charged with driving under the influence and property damage following the rollover crash. The case continues to develop as legal proceedings move forward in Martin County, Florida.
Public reaction to the incident has been mixed, with some expressing concern for Woods' wellbeing while others question his judgment. The golfer's representatives have not issued additional statements beyond what was contained in the police affidavit.
This incident marks another challenging chapter for the fifteen-time major champion, whose career has been marked by extraordinary athletic achievements alongside personal and health struggles. The golf community and sports fans worldwide continue to follow developments in the case as more information becomes available.
