Tiger Woods has publicly endorsed the PGA Tour's planned overhaul of its postseason format, which is set to be implemented starting in 2028. This statement, issued Tuesday via social media, represents one of the golfer's few public comments since his arrest for driving under the influence on March 27.
The PGA Tour announced significant changes to its playoff structure, moving away from the current 72-hole stroke play format for the top 30 players. The revised system will conclude with a Tour Championship played over two weeks, incorporating match play, at different golf courses.
Woods, a 15-time major winner, shared his approval, stating, "The conclusion of the season should be worthy of the journey it takes to get there. Today's announcement is a result of the hard work and passion of our players. Excited to usher in a new era of match play on the @PGATOUR."
Under the new format beginning in 2028, the BMW Championship, the only rotating postseason event, will feature the top 90 players on the points list. Points accumulated throughout the season will continue to be a factor, with the season leader receiving the championship title and bonus money.
Following the BMW Championship, the top 32 players will be divided into eight groups of four for a match play competition. The top two players from each pool will advance to the final event, a four-day match play tournament. Players eliminated earlier will still compete to determine final standings.
Woods has largely maintained a low profile since his arrest in Florida, where he was detained after his SUV overturned. He was charged with driving under the influence, property damage, and refusal to submit to a lawful test. Police reportedly found two opioid painkillers in his pocket at the time of his arrest.
Following the arrest, Woods sought professional help in Zurich, Switzerland. He has since returned to Florida. His girlfriend, Vanessa Trump, revealed her breast cancer diagnosis during this period.
Woods is scheduled to make his first court appearance related to the DUI charge on September 8, following several postponements. He has waived his arraignment and requested a jury trial.
Prosecutors have been granted access to Woods' hospital records from his treatment following the crash, as well as prescription medication records from his pharmacy. A protective order is in place to limit the release of these records.
This incident marks the fourth time Woods has faced legal trouble related to driving. He was arrested for DUI in 2017 and was involved in a serious car crash in 2021 that resulted in significant injuries and multiple surgeries. In 2009, he crashed into a fire hydrant near his home following reports of infidelity.
Woods had been nearing a return to professional golf prior to his March arrest and was expected to compete at The Masters. He has not competed since the 2024 Open Championship and has undergone multiple surgeries for back and Achilles injuries. His most recent public statement prior to Tuesday's endorsement of the PGA Tour changes was on July 17, complimenting a fellow golfer's performance.