Tiger Woods withdraws from 2025 Masters to prioritize health recovery

Tiger Woods will miss the 2025 Masters Tournament as he steps away from golf to focus on his health. The decision follows years of struggles, including a 2017 DUI arrest and multiple surgeries this year. His absence marks another pause in a career repeatedly interrupted by injuries and personal challenges. In May 2017, Woods was arrested in Florida for driving under the influence. Police reports showed he had Vicodin, Dilaudid, Xanax, Ambien, and THC in his system. Officers also found two hydrocodone pills on him at the time. Later that year, he entered a clinic to address his use of prescription drugs.

The arrest was not his first brush with driving incidents. Before 2017, Woods had been involved in two separate car crashes. Following the DUI, he pleaded not guilty and hired defence lawyer Douglas Duncan. Public figures, including golfer Paige Spiranac, voiced support for him during the ordeal. This year, Woods underwent his seventh back surgery along with an operation on his Achilles tendon. The procedures have further limited his ability to compete. Now, citing personal matters, he has chosen to skip one of golf's most prestigious events.

Woods' withdrawal from the 2025 Masters adds to a long list of setbacks. His focus remains on recovery after surgeries and ongoing health battles. The decision underscores the physical and personal hurdles he continues to face.