Police have released bodycam video showing Tiger Woods mentioning he had been speaking with “the president” after a car crash last Friday.
The pro golfer was driving near his home in Jupiter Island when he tried to pass a trailer, struck it, and his Range Rover ended up rolling onto the roadside.
He was able to climb out via the passenger side and, according to reports from the scene, did not suffer injuries in the crash.
Despite that, Woods was taken into custody and faces charges including driving under the influence, property damage, and refusing to submit to a lawful test.
“Based on my observations of Woods, how he performed the exercises and based on my training, knowledge, and experience, I believed that Woods’ normal faculties were impaired, and he was unable to safely operate the motor vehicle,” a police deputy said.
Later that day, the 50-year-old was released on bail. He has since entered a not-guilty plea after missing an initial court appearance on Tuesday.
Woods is due back in court for an arraignment hearing on April 23.
The Martin County Sheriff’s Office published bodycam footage captured shortly after the crash, showing deputies walking up a path toward Woods.
In the video, Woods says “thank you so much” as an officer asks him to remain nearby: ‘down here with us please’.
He then tells them: “Yeah, I was just talking to the president.”
After the incident, President Trump addressed reporters and said Woods is a ‘close friend’.
Trump said: “I feel so badly. He’s got some difficulty. He’s a very close friend of mine, he’s an amazing person, an amazing man.”
The footage also shows Woods being evaluated at the scene. He described noticing his phone and then hearing the impact.
“I look down at my phone and all of a sudden… boom,” he said of the crash.
Woods said he felt comfortable, and an officer told him a doctor would still check him out.
In another part of the recording, Martin County Sheriff’s deputy Tatiana Levenar explains why Woods is being detained.
“I do believe your normal faculties are impaired, and you’re under an unknown substance, so at this time you’re under arrest for DUI.”
Woods responds: “I’m being arrested?” and Levenar replies: “Yes, sir.”
In the days since, Woods posted a statement on X saying he would step back to focus on “lasting recovery”.
He wrote: “I know and understand the seriousness of the situation I find myself in today. I am stepping away for a period of time to seek treatment and focus on my health. This is necessary in order for me to prioritize my well-being and work toward lasting recovery.
“I’m committed to taking the time needed to return in a healthier, stronger, and more focused place, both personally and professionally. I appreciate our understanding and support, and ask for privacy for my family, loved ones and myself at this time.”