Tiger Woods Pleads Not Guilty and Announces Retirement

Tiger Woods appeared in court on Thursday, entering a not guilty plea to a misdemeanor charge of driving under the influence, while also revealing his decision to retire from professional golf.

The golf star was arrested in Florida last week after he declined to take a legal urine test. His charges include DUI and misdemeanor criminal damage to property. Court documents released on Tuesday indicated that police found hydrocodone tablets in his pocket following a rollover accident.

According to the affidavit, Woods told the police he was distracted by his cell phone while inside his Range Rover, attempting to change radio stations, which led him to miss the sight of a slowing truck pulling a trailer.

In the arrest affidavit, Martin County Sheriff’s Deputy Tatiana Revenner noted that Woods appeared to be “sweating profusely” and exhibited “lethargic and sluggish” movements during questioning.

Martin County Sheriff John Budensiek confirmed that Woods’s breath test showed no alcohol present, although Woods refused to provide urine or blood samples for testing for other substances.

Woods is represented by Douglas Duncan, an attorney based in West Palm Beach. Duncan submitted the not guilty plea in Martin County Circuit Court and requested a jury trial. He also represented Woods in a previous case from 2017, where Woods faced DUI charges after being found asleep at the wheel. At that time, Woods accepted a plea deal for reckless driving, stemming from a dangerous combination of pain medications.

After pleading not guilty, Woods announced he would be stepping back from golf to seek treatment and prioritize his health.

“I recognize the gravity of the situation I’m in,” he stated in a recent message. “It’s important for me to take this time off for treatment and to focus on my well-being. This is a necessary step towards my recovery.”

“I’m fully committed to taking the required time to return to a healthier and more focused place, both personally and professionally. I appreciate the understanding and support from everyone and kindly request respect for the privacy of my family and myself during this time,” he added.