On Tuesday evening, Tiger Woods shared his first public statement since the roll-over crash he was involved in on Friday, March 27.
In his message, the 15-time major champion announced his decision to step away from the game of golf — just one week before he was poised for a possible comeback at the 2026 Masters Tournament.
“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,” Woods wrote on social media. “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,” he continued. “I appreciate your understanding and support, and ask for privacy for my family, loved ones and myself at this time.”
Fred Ridley, Chairman of the Augusta National Golf Club, released an official response to Woods’ announcement on behalf of the historic golf event.
“Augusta National Golf Club and the Masters Tournament fully support Tiger Woods as he focuses on his well-being,” Ridley wrote in a statement. “Although Tiger will not be joining us in person next week, his presence will be felt here in Augusta.”
Woods is a five-time Masters champion, winning his most recent Green Jacket as a 43-year-old golfer in 2019 — 14 years removed from his previous title at Augusta National in 2005.
Just last week at his return to competitive golf with the TGL’s Jupiter Golf Links, Woods discussed his possible return to action at Augusta National.
“I’ve been trying. Just this body is – it doesn’t recover like it did when it was 24, 25. It doesn’t mean I’m not trying,” Woods said. “I’ve been trying for a while. I’ve had a couple bad injuries here over the past years that I’ve had to fight through and it’s taken some time.
“But I keep trying. I want to play. I love the tournament,” Woods added. “I’ve loved being there since I was 19 years old. It’s meant a lot to me and my family over the years.”