Golf legend Tiger Woods appeared in a pre-recorded video message on Tuesday, marking a rare public showing since his March DUI arrest and subsequent time in rehabilitation. The 15-time major champion, who has maintained a low profile since the rollover crash that led to charges of DUI with property damage and refusal to submit to a lawful test, sent a message to fellow golf icon Notah Begay III as Begay received the Payne Stewart Award.
The video clip, broadcast on The Golf Channel and widely shared on social media, prompted reactions from fans concerned about Woods' appearance. Comments on social media noted he looked "a shell of his former self," "different for sure," and "unrecognizable." Others observed he appeared "skinnier" and "sober."
Woods is scheduled to make his first courtroom appearance regarding the DUI charges on September 8 in Martin County, Florida. The date has seen several postponements as the investigation continues. Woods has waived arraignment and requested a jury trial. Prosecutors were granted access to Woods' hospital records from his treatment following the crash, as well as his prescription medication records from a Palm Beach pharmacy.
Earlier on Tuesday, Woods broke a month-long social media silence to express support for recent changes to the PGA Tour's end-of-season scheduling. He posted that the conclusion of the season should be "worthy of the journey" and heralded a "new era of match play."
Woods has faced legal issues involving driving infractions previously. In 2017, he was arrested for DUI in Florida. In 2021, he was involved in a serious rollover crash in California that resulted in severe leg injuries requiring multiple surgeries. Another incident occurred in 2009 when he crashed his vehicle after fleeing his home.
Woods had been expected to compete in The Masters prior to his March arrest, having not competed since the 2024 Open Championship. He has since undergone surgery for a torn Achilles tendon and a seventh back procedure.