Tiger Woods is slated to appear in court on Wednesday to change his plea in his driving under the influence (DUI) case. The professional golfer had previously pleaded not guilty following his arrest in March on charges of driving under the influence after a rollover car crash in Jupiter Island, Florida.
Court records indicate that Woods waived his arraignment and requested a jury trial. Martin County Sheriff John Budensiek stated at a press conference following the crash that Woods exhibited signs of impairment and refused a urinalysis test. A police report subsequently revealed that two white pills, later identified as hydrocodone, were found in Woods' pants pocket. Although Woods, who appeared to be sweating profusely, claimed he had not consumed alcohol or illegal substances, he admitted to taking a few prescription medications. He was arrested and charged with misdemeanor driving under the influence with property damage and refusal to submit to a lawful test.
Following the incident, Woods stated he was stepping away to seek treatment and entered a rehabilitation facility in Switzerland, where he remained for nearly three months. He has since returned to public appearances, including a pre-recorded video honoring fellow golfer Notah Begay at a recent award ceremony. Some observers noted a change in his appearance, with comments on social media ranging from concern to defense of his sobriety.
This is not the first time Woods has faced DUI charges; he was arrested in May 2017 for being found asleep behind the wheel of his car. At the time of his March arrest, Woods acknowledged the seriousness of the situation and expressed a commitment to prioritizing his health and working toward recovery to return in a healthier and stronger state, both personally and professionally.