Tiger Woods announces he is stepping back after his arrest in Florida

American golf superstar Tiger Woods announced Tuesday that he is taking a break for a while "to undergo treatment" after his arrest Friday in Florida related to a car accident.

"I am taking a step back for a while to undergo treatment and focus on my health. This is necessary so that I can prioritize my well-being and work towards a lasting recovery," Tiger Woods wrote in a statement posted on social media, after pleading not guilty Tuesday to "driving under the influence."

Seriously injured in his right leg in an accident in 2021, the 50-year-old champion was arrested Friday by Martin County police, his car on its side, after hitting a truck he was trying to pass on a two-lane road.

The American escaped the accident without serious injury, but was arrested for refusing to submit to a urine test after having a negative breathalyzer test.

Woods was charged with "driving under the influence," which in the United States can include alcohol or drugs, "property damage," and "refusal to submit to a test."

He was detained for eight hours before being released in the evening.

The golfer pleaded not guilty Tuesday in Martin County court. He requested a jury trial in this case.

Lacking exploits on the greens, Tiger Woods continues to make headlines, but more often for his injuries or off-track excursions.

The former world No. 1 with 15 Grand Slam victories has not competed since July 2024. A year ago, he underwent surgery for a ruptured left Achilles tendon, casting a shadow over the rest of his career.

He had undergone back surgery again last October.

His participation in the next Masters, the most prestigious tournament of the season which will take place from April 9 to 12 in Augusta (Georgia, USA), was still hoped for by the golf community in recent days.

In a statement, tournament officials offered "their full support to Tiger Woods as he decides to prioritize his well-being." "Despite the fact that Tiger will not be physically with us next week, his presence will be felt here," commented Fred Ridley, chairman of the renowned tournament.

"My thoughts are with him and his family in their endeavor, for which he has my full respect and full support," commented the head of the North American PGA circuit, Brian Rolapp, in a separate statement.