Woods announced on Tuesday that he would be “stepping away for a period of time” to seek treatment after the incident last Friday, which led to him being charged with driving under the influence. He has pleaded not guilty but acknowledged looking at his phone just before the crash. Police reported finding two hydrocodone pills—a pain-relief opioid—in his pocket.
Although Woods had not explicitly confirmed missing The Masters, Ridley stated in a release: “Augusta National Golf Club and the Masters Tournament fully support Tiger Woods as he focuses on his well-being. Although Tiger will not be joining us in person next week, his presence will be felt here in Augusta.”
Even without playing, Woods was expected to attend the opening ceremony of 'The Patch,' a municipal course he helped design, as well as the Champions Dinner on April 7, hosted this year by Rory McIlroy, who completed his career Grand Slam in 2025.
The 50-year-old golfer has faced ongoing physical challenges since a serious car crash in 2021 and a previous incident in 2017. He has played a limited schedule, with his last outdoor tournament being the 2024 Open Championship, where he missed the cut. Woods briefly returned at the TGL finals in late March at Jupiter Links Golf Club, his first action in over a year, sparking hopes of a Masters appearance, which are now dashed.
Golf’s future and Woods’ role beyond competition
Golf Channel analyst Brandel Chamblee reflected on Woods’ impact:
“To see him acknowledge that he has a serious problem is great for him, his family, and ultimately for the game of golf. Tiger has given us so much through his competition, but what he can achieve as an elder statesman could be even more important. He carries a weight in the game that no one else does.
“When Tiger is clear-eyed and focused, it’s obvious he’s smart, thoughtful, and deeply concerned with golf’s past and future. There’s nothing left for him to achieve competitively, but his influence off the course could shape the game for generations.
“Coming back to compete has pushed his body to the limit, requiring surgery and pain medication. It’s a hard thing for someone so strong-willed to admit they need help, but Tiger has taken steps in the right direction.”
Chamblee emphasized that Woods’ acknowledgment of his challenges could be a turning point, not just for his personal recovery but also for his lasting legacy in golf.
Woods’ absence at Augusta marks another chapter in a career defined by both extraordinary success and remarkable resilience, as he now focuses on regaining his health and well-being before returning to the sport he transformed.
— Tiger Woods (@TigerWoods) March 31, 2026