Tiger Woods is preparing to alter his plea in a DUI case linked to a crash that occurred in Florida. Court documents filed on Tuesday indicate Woods’ decision to change his previous not guilty plea, which he made following his arrest after a rollover crash in March.
The incident took place when Woods’ Land Rover collided with a truck, causing the vehicle to flip onto its side. The event led to Woods’ arrest. Initially, Woods pleaded not guilty in the Martin County circuit court, located just north of Palm Beach County. He is scheduled to appear in court for a plea conference hearing on Wednesday morning. Specific details about the nature of his plea change have not been disclosed.
Efforts to obtain comments from Woods’ attorney, Doug Duncan, and the State Attorney’s Office were not immediately successful. In a video released by the Martin County Sheriff’s Office, Woods is seen taking a field sobriety test after the crash on Jupiter Island on March 27, 2026.
Authorities reported that Woods’ vehicle was traveling at high speeds in an area with a 30 mph speed limit. The crash resulted in $5,000 worth of damage to the truck. Despite the severe crash, Woods was able to exit the vehicle without injuries. He informed a deputy that he was distracted by his phone and adjusting the radio when the collision occurred.
Woods consented to a Breathalyzer test that indicated no alcohol consumption but refused a urine test. Deputies found two pain pills in his pocket, and he exhibited signs of impairment. Woods traveled abroad to seek treatment at an inpatient facility, as per court records.
In July, Judge Darren Steele authorized an agreement allowing prosecutors to review medical records related to Woods’ crash and arrest. A similar agreement was signed in May, granting access to Woods’ prescription medication records at a Palm Beach pharmacy for the period from January to the end of March.
Woods, now 50, remains a highly influential golfer who has made a significant impact on the sport. He was the first person of Black heritage to win the Masters in 1997. His career achievements have endured despite setbacks due to multiple surgeries, accidents, and issues with pain medication.
Woods has been involved in four crashes over his career. Notably, in 2021, he survived a severe accident in Los Angeles that nearly led to the amputation of his right leg. In 2009, another crash occurred when his SUV hit a fire hydrant and tree near Orlando, Florida. After both incidents, Woods took breaks from professional golf.
Since returning from treatment, Woods made a public appearance on June 23. He introduced the PGA Tour’s new schedule for 2028 but did not answer questions. He continues to serve as chairman of the PGA Tour’s Future Competition Committee.
Associated Press writer Hallie Golden contributed additional reporting from Seattle.
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