What’s wrong with Tiger Woods? ‘Heartbreaking’ video after DUI arrest leaves fans worried, ‘Mental health is real’

Just after crashing his SUV in Florida on March 27, Tiger Woods told authorities he had been speaking to “the president”. Newly released bodycam footage shows deputies approaching Woods near a two-lane road in Jupiter Island after his vehicle hit a truck and rolled over.

While on his phone, the PGA legend thanked an officer. He said he had been talking to the president and was trying to “get away from everybody”, according to PEOPLE.

Woods was arrested after a two-vehicle crash in Jupiter Island, where he owns a home. He reportedly crawled out of his overturned vehicle before being taken into custody.

The 50-year-old was released about eight hours later after posting $1,150 bail. He has since pleaded not guilty through his lawyer.

Authorities later arrested Tiger Woods on suspicion of driving under the influence (DUI). Deputies reported finding hydrocodone tablets in his pocket.

They said he showed signs of impairment, including bloodshot eyes and dilated pupils. It is not confirmed if he meant Donald Trump when he mentioned “the president”. The two, however, have a known relationship.

Additional footage shows Woods in a police van, handcuffed and covered with a sheet. During the ride, he appeared unwell, hiccuping, yawning and staring out the window.

Tiger Woods’ fans react

Tiger Woods faces charges including DUI with property damage, careless driving and refusing a lawful test. In addition to that, his fans are concerned about his well-being. What they see on bodycam footage and police van camera doesn’t look good. Woods seems unwell.

They have also slammed the authorities for releasing footage showing the legend in a less-than-impressive condition.

“I’m not defending his actions BUT it is not fair to be showing this!” wrote one of them.

“He's had over 30 surgeries on his back and leg. Of course he's on painkillers. He's addicted now. I hope he gets the help he needs,” commented another fan.

Another fan questioned his mental well-being, “Let’s pray he get the help he needs. Mental health is real.”

“This actually breaks my heart; he needs help,” posted one fan.

Another fan wrote, “So sad. This should not be shared to social media. He’s a perfect example of too much too soon and pressure from his father. I pray he gets help and can resume his life in a normal fashion.”

What’s wrong with Tiger Woods?

After his DUI arrest in Florida, Tiger Woods said that he needed to leave the country for treatment. A judge approved his request to enter a comprehensive inpatient program abroad. The decision came after his attorney argued that Woods needed urgent medical care in a private and controlled setting, the Palm Beach Post reported.

Court documents do not reveal the country where Woods will receive treatment. However, the facility is expected to provide continuous monitoring and allow quick adjustments to his care. His legal team says this level of treatment is necessary due to his complex medical condition.

His attorney also stated that Woods’ privacy has been repeatedly affected in the United States. That makes his recovery more difficult.

Constant media attention and public scrutiny, they argued, could slow his progress and prevent him from fully focusing on treatment. Moving abroad is expected to give him the space needed for proper recovery.

This is not the first time that Tiger Woods is going to rehab. The legendary golfer has a history of seeking treatment for health and personal issues.

In 2010, he entered a rehab facility in Mississippi for sex addiction and misuse of medications like Vicodin and Ambien. In 2017, he completed another rehab program after being found asleep at the wheel, which was linked to painkiller dependence.

In 2021, Woods went through intensive physical rehabilitation. It was after a serious car crash in California that he was severely injured in his right leg. Woods, now 50, has undergone over 20 surgeries on his right leg and 7 on his back.

Now, Woods has said he will step back from golf to focus on his health and recovery. In a social media statement, he shared that he is committed to becoming healthier, stronger, and more focused.

“I appreciate your understanding and support, and ask for privacy for my family, loved ones and myself at this time," Woods wrote on social media on April 1.