Tiger Woods reportedly plans to return to golf once he completes treatment after a shocking car crash and DUI arrest in Florida last month.
In a chat with People magazine published on Sunday, sources close to the 50-year-old golf great revealed Woods’ post-treatment career plans and how “desperately” he wants to return to the sport.
“He knows he needs to overcome his issues and deal with the pain not only from golf but also from his regular fitness schedule,” the source explained.
“Those around him support him both personally and professionally,” they added. “All of this is helping him cope enough to get through it.”
Another source told the magazine that Woods is “still obsessed with golf,” including at least one more Masters and other PGA tournaments, even though various injuries and age have “made it difficult” for him to play.
“He just wants to get better in every aspect of his life,” the source said.
A representative for Woods did not immediately respond to Page Six’s request for comment.
The five-time Masters champion was arrested and charged with misdemeanor DUI and criminal damage to property after he crashed and overturned his Land Rover SUV on March 27 in Jupiter Island, Florida.
Police said the professional golfer declined to file a lawful test charge because he showed “signs of impairment” and refused a urine test despite a negative breathalyzer test.
Page Six obtained a police report on the incident, in which police claimed to have found “two white pills” allegedly hydrocodone in Woods’ left pants pocket.
Authorities also noted that Woods’ pupils were “hyperdilated” and his eyes appeared “bloodshot and glassy,” and they still were when he posed for his mug shot.
Body camera footage from the scene also showed Woods failing a breathalyzer test and hiccuping and yawning while speaking with police after the horrific rollover crash.
He was eventually taken into custody and booked into the Martin County Jail and released early on March 28th.
“I know and understand the seriousness of the situation I find myself in today,” Woods wrote in a statement to X shortly after pleading not guilty on March 31.
“I will be taking a period of leave to undergo treatment and focus on my health,” he continued. “This is what I need to do to prioritize my health and work towards a lasting recovery.”
Woods added, “I am committed to taking the time necessary to return to a healthier, stronger and more focused place, both personally and professionally.”
The golf great’s private jet reportedly landed in Zurich, Switzerland, on April 3 after receiving permission from a judge to travel outside of Florida for medical treatment.
Woods’ girlfriend Vanessa Trump continues to support the three-time US Open champion after his drunk driving accident.
A source said the mother of five had been “supportive” of the embattled professional athlete’s decision to undergo “private treatment” outside the Sunshine State.
“She still stands behind this and supports him,” a source told People Sunday. “She loves him and knows he needs individualized treatment.”
She added: “Vanessa had some tough times, but she was always there for him, even when she was worried about him.”
