Tiger Woods DUI Arrest Explained: Bodycam Shows President Call & Hydrocodone Pills

What Happened to Tiger Woods in Florida?

Golf legend Tiger Woods, 50, was arrested on March 27, 2026, for driving under the influence after his black Land Rover SUV flipped over in Jupiter, Florida. The incident has gained national attention after body camera footage revealed Woods telling police he had just been speaking with 'the president' moments before his arrest. The video shows a visibly impaired Woods struggling with sobriety tests while officers found two hydrocodone pills in his pocket.

Bodycam Footage Reveals Disturbing Details

The recently released police body camera footage provides unprecedented insight into the moments following Woods' crash. In the video, Woods can be seen walking unsteadily on the road, sweating profusely, and displaying signs of impairment. He tells officers, 'I was just on the phone with the president,' though he doesn't specify which president he was referring to. Given Woods' relationship with former President Donald Trump, who awarded him the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2019, many speculate he was referring to Trump.

Woods' Physical Condition and Police Interaction

Officers noted Woods had bloodshot, glassy eyes, extremely dilated pupils, and was hiccuping throughout the investigation. He performed poorly on modified field sobriety tests and had difficulty following instructions. 'I am convinced your normal faculties are impaired and you are under the influence of an unknown substance,' an officer told Woods before placing him in handcuffs. The golf legend remained calm and cooperative throughout the encounter, despite his obvious impairment.

What Substances Were Involved?

Police discovered two white pills marked 'M367' in Woods' left pant pocket during the arrest. Woods identified them as 'Norco,' a prescription painkiller containing the opioid hydrocodone. Breath tests at the scene and later at the jail showed zero alcohol in his system, but Woods refused to submit to urine testing that could detect drugs or medications. This refusal resulted in additional charges beyond the initial DUI with property damage.

Woods' Medical History and Previous Incidents

This isn't Woods' first encounter with law enforcement related to impaired driving. In 2017, he was arrested for DUI after police found him asleep at the wheel of his damaged car. He claimed then that his impairment resulted from prescription medication reactions. Woods has also suffered multiple serious injuries throughout his career, including the 2021 car crash that nearly ended his career and required multiple surgeries. His medical history includes seven back operations, which likely contributed to his need for pain management medications.

The Trump Connection and Political Implications

Woods' relationship with Donald Trump adds a political dimension to this incident. The former president awarded Woods the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2019 and has consistently praised the golfer as a friend. Trump responded to the recent crash by saying, 'He's having some difficulty. There was an accident. That's all I know. He's a good friend of mine.' Complicating matters further, Woods is currently dating Vanessa Trump, the ex-wife of Donald Trump Jr., creating additional family connections to the political dynasty.

Legal Consequences and Career Impact

Woods faces misdemeanor charges of DUI with property damage and refusal to submit to testing. Damage to both vehicles is estimated at $5,000. He was released after eight hours in custody on $1,150 bail. Following the incident, Woods announced he would step away from professional golf to focus on his health and seek treatment. 'I am stepping away to focus on my health and well-being,' Woods stated in a social media announcement. This decision comes just weeks after his return to competitive golf following a year-long absence due to injury.

Comparison to Previous Celebrity DUI Cases

Woods' case follows a pattern seen in other high-profile celebrity DUI arrests where prescription medications rather than alcohol are involved. The combination of pain management needs, public scrutiny, and legal consequences creates unique challenges for athletes in Woods' position. His case highlights the ongoing issues surrounding prescription drug use among professional athletes managing chronic pain.

FAQs About Tiger Woods' DUI Arrest

What exactly happened in Tiger Woods' crash?

Woods was attempting to pass a truck towing a trailer at high speed in a 30 mph zone when his Land Rover clipped the trailer, causing his vehicle to flip over. He told police he was distracted by his cell phone and changing the radio station at the time of the accident.

What charges does Tiger Woods face?

Woods faces misdemeanor charges of DUI with property damage and refusal to submit to testing. He has pleaded not guilty to all charges.

Did Tiger Woods have alcohol in his system?

No, breath tests showed 0.00% blood alcohol content. However, police found hydrocodone pills in his pocket and noted signs of impairment consistent with drug use.

How does this affect Tiger Woods' golf career?

Woods has announced he's stepping away from professional golf indefinitely to focus on his health and recovery. This comes just after his return from injury, potentially jeopardizing his competitive future.

What is Tiger Woods' relationship with Donald Trump?

Trump awarded Woods the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2019, and they have maintained a friendly relationship. Woods is also dating Trump's former daughter-in-law, Vanessa Trump.

Sources

AP News: Tiger Woods Bodycam Footage
CBS News: Body Camera Footage Released
New York Post: Hydrocodone Pills Found
Newsweek: Trump-Woods Relationship